SAN JOSE, CA — A devastating four-car collision on Highway 87 earlier this week claimed the lives of 29-year-old Ivana Balistreri and her 1-year-old daughter, Lilliana, leaving a community in shock and a family searching for answers.
Accident Details
The crash occurred late Tuesday morning on northbound Highway 87, just past the Curtner exit. According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision involved four vehicles and resulted in a fire that trapped occupants inside their cars. Two additional people were injured.
CHP has not yet released information on the cause of the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing. The family is urging anyone with knowledge about what happened to come forward.
Impact on the Balistreri Family
At their San Jose home, relatives have created a small memorial with photographs, flowers, and the tiny shoes of Ivana and Lilli placed side by side.
“Ivana was a light — she lit up every room she walked into,” said her sister Francesca Alexander.
Lilli, who would have turned two in just weeks, was the first girl born to the family in 18 years.
“Everything felt like it was falling into place for her. And then her life was ripped away.” Said Francesca.
The family created a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
Even in Grief, Mourning Families Have Rights
While the Balistreris grieve, they have legal rights under California law to help them seek for accountability, answers, and justice.
Wrongful Death Claims
Surviving family members may seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
Under CCP §377.60
Negligence & Duty of Care
- Drivers who act carelessly or recklessly may be held liable for harm caused (Comparative Negligence)
- Families may recover compensation even if multiple drivers shared fault. (Civil Code §1431.2)
Right to Investigation
Families are entitled to:
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Vehicle black box (EDR) data
These rights can help families understand what happened — and help prevent similar tragedies.
How Justin For Justice Supports Grieving Families
At Justin For Justice, we support families during their most challenging moments so they can focus on healing while our team:
- Conducts thorough independent investigations
- Works with accident reconstruction experts
- Handles insurance companies on your behalf
- Pursues full compensation under California wrongful death law
- Offers compassionate, family-centered guidance every step of the way
Call Justin For JusticeFree, confidential consultation — no fees unless we win.
The medical care you need, the money you deserve.
