San Jose, CA — The identities of the mother and toddler killed earlier this week in a fiery crash on northbound Highway 87 just north of Curtner Avenue have been released. The victims are Ivana Balistreri, 29, and her daughter Lilliana Balistreri, just 1 year old.
Their deaths have shocked family, friends and the wider community as grief and questions remain following the violent collision. According to relatives, Ivana had recently become engaged to her fiancé, who was driving the family’s vehicle at the time.
Lilliana’s first birthday would have been two weeks away, on December 16 — a heartbreaking detail the family shared in announcing their passing. The crash involved a multi‑vehicle collision — including two Teslas, a Lexus, and a Toyota — and resulted in at least three vehicles igniting in flames.
Eyewitness and scene video showed charred husks on the roadway. The Balistreris were passengers in the Lexus; the vehicle’s driver — Ivana’s fiancé — survived and was transported to hospital, but their condition has not been released.
In the wake of their deaths, family members described Ivana as a “pure spirit,” full of kindness and warmth, while little Lilliana was lovingly referred to as “Lilly Bean,” a toddler whose smile and innocence brightened every room she entered. “Her light and sweetness will stay with us forever,” relatives wrote.
Authorities with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) continue to investigate the causes of the crash. So far, they have said there is no indication alcohol or drugs played a role, but no definitive cause has yet been determined.
Meanwhile, the family has launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and support loved ones during this tragic time. The loss of Ivana and Lilliana is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life — and a call to cherish every moment with those we love.
