SAN ANTONIO — Juliana Gatica fought for this country. But tragically lost her life here at home. The San Antonio Marine was killed in a wreck and nearly two weeks later, her family is sharing the story of the woman they say gave so much.
Gatica's cousin Doris Sanchez said her loved one served four years, and was a proud Marine.
"A little spark that would light up a room," she said. "She loved her country. Full of grit. She was girly until she wasn't."
Sanchez said the family is heartbroken by Gatica's loss, because it was so unexpected.
"I just keep texting and calling hoping she will answer," Sanchez said. "I am hoping somebody will tell me that it was a mistake."
According to Live Oak Police, the crash happened on Nov. 2 and Gatica was killed in the area of N Loop 1604 and 35 North.
"Not a good day for us," Sanchez said. "Not a good day for us. We lost her that day. It doesn't make sense to me."
According to the report, Live Oak Police said a driver told officers Gatica hit him on the right passenger side. In the report, it states the driver told officers he did not see where she came from. A witness reportedly told police, they saw Gatica spin out of control before crashing and coming to a stop facing the wrong direction. She died at the scene.
"I don't know what I am going to do now," Sanchez said. "I don't know what I am going to do."
Sanchez said her 31-year-old cousin worked with non-profits for veterans and was about serving others. She wants her to be remembered that way.
"Be proud," she said. "Love your family. She loved her family. She loved her friends. Live in the moment, that's the way she lived life."
The family is working on funeral arrangements. They said Gatica will be buried at Fort Sam Houston with honors because that is what she deserves.
"Trying to do right by her," the cousin said. "Trying to give her what she earned."