Mourners say final goodbyes to 16-year-old Port Chester HS student killed in rollover crash
The single-vehicle crash happened during the family's return trip from a day at the beach.
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A procession of mourners arrived at the Ortiz Funeral Home in Port Chester Saturday to say their final goodbyes to Tania Lopez.
The 16-year-old Port Chester High School student died Aug. 16 in a fiery rollover crash that also severely injured some of her siblings.
The single-vehicle crash happened during the family's return trip from a day at the beach.
Her younger brother and sister who are recovering attended the wake with the help of wheelchairs.
Tania's grieving father, Marvin Lopez, spoke to News 12, with the help of Port Chester Mayor Luis Marino, who interpreted on his behalf.
"He feels very sad, what they went through with the family. You can see his wife, kids inside. But at the same time, he feels so proud to be a Port Chester resident because the community...he wanted to thank you for everything they did," Marino said.
Yamileth Aguilar, of Port Chester, attended the wake with her family and shared fond memories of the girl with the engaging smile.
"She was very kind, friendly, all that stuff," Aguilar said.
"It's a respect, in these difficult times. The Village of Port Chester comes together very strongly in support of the family. This is why we're here today, in support of him and his family," Marino added.
Tania's remains will be sent to Guatemala for burial.
As of Saturday night, there was no official statement from police on the cause of the accident.
