Erika was one of my peer supporters in the TOPS program. I saw her almost daily and it stood out to me how much she enjoyed giving to and helping others as they would come into the TOPS room. She was one of the first students I saw outside of school at the gym and she made it a point to come say hi even know we hardly knew each other then. She helped me learn so much during my first year at Mayo! And always with a smile and joy. My heart aches with you and will continue to lift your family up in prayer. 

I am devastated to have just found out about your loss. Erika was one of the first members of Omega Ti, a new club at UST for women in fitness. She was so excited to join and I loved seeing her in the gym on campus. She never failed to say hello and chat for a few minutes about what we were each doing that day. She was the epitome of what it means to be a Strength Sister: strong, resilient, and empowering. She was going to be such an amazing strength sister. My heart is breaking at this news and I wish you all the condolences in the world. My prayers and heart go out to her family and friends who are mourning her loss.

I didn't know Erika Xiomara Cruz but I know she was valued by so many people and she always will be. Looking at her fitness page on Instagram, seeing the amount of individuals she motivated and encouraged to reach their own goals is mind blowing. That alone is beyond amazing because she was a leader, so many people looked up to her and I can't even imagine the pain you all are feeling right now. I know that I didn't know Erika personally like you all did, I know that their is nothing I can say or do to make things better but look at the person she became. Erika was and always will be a beautiful soul inside and out, you all as her family took part in the growth of a magnificent young women. I wish you all comfort and happiness throughout time, I hope one day you all can heal from this together and individually.

I didn't know Erika Xiomara Cruz but I know she was valued by so many people and she always will be. Looking at her fitness page on Instagram, seeing the amount of individuals she motivated and encouraged to reach their own goals is mind blowing. That alone is beyond amazing because she was a leader, so many people looked up to her and I can't even imagine the pain you all are feeling right now. I know that I didn't know Erika personally like you all did, I know that their is nothing I can say or do to make things better but look at the person she became. Erika was and always will be a beautiful soul inside and out, you all as her family took part in the growth of a magnificent young women. I wish you all comfort and happiness throughout time, I hope one day you all can heal from this together and individually.

So sorry for your loss,rest in peace beautiful!?

To the Cruz family, 

I am so very sorry that you are experiencing this horrible tragedy in your beautiful family.  I had Erik and Erika in my first grade class at Pinewood.  Reading about this horrific accident is so sad but when you know the victim it makes it even harder to accept.  I pray that your family will be able to get through this difficult time together and know Erika has gone to her forever home to watch down over her loved ones. It’s just hurts so much! I will pray for your family and please  lean on others who want to help you at this time. So sorry 

I worked with Erica at Daubes and she was truly the sweetest and kindest soul. She always worked with a smile and always had a fun story to tell when it was slow. She would even go as far as to offer me a free donut if I hadn't eaten in a while because that was the type of person she was. She was always interested in learning about others and made you feel valued and heard. My heart goes out to her family and friends. She truly was a bright light in any room she entered. She was taken from us way too early. I know she would have done great things in her life. I will keep her and her family in my prayers. Rest Easy, Erika. 

Rene& Marcela Cruz y fam.

Nuestras más Sinceras Condolencias sabemos que están pasando por unos momentos muy tristes y difíciles Esperemos poco a poco Dios los ayude a seguir adelante con su familia.

Los tenemos en nuestras oraciones ??

Alfonso & Magda Cerda y Familia.

Marcela,

My heart is broken for you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss of your beautiful Erika. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.

Sincerely,

The Rinaldo Family

I'm soo sorry for your loss she was still a baby its horrific tragedy that shouldn't of happened  people shouldn't be drinking and driving  but I'm a mother of 4 I never want to imagine what your going thru as a parent she had her whole life ahead of  her higs warm thoughts of you and prays at this time god bless yours truly paris

Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.  Our family used to live down the block from you and Elizabeth and Erika were friends. We moved to Arizona 3 yrs ago, and Elizabeth and Erika even met up for breakfast at Perkins on one of our trips back. Elizabeth and Erika even studied on your front lawn when they were Freshman at Mayo HS. I can't imagine what you are going through. Please know we are praying hard for you here in AZ. Erika was an incredible young woman. Your whole family is incredible! I have no doubt she is looking over all of you. Sincerely- Jody, Tim, Elizabeth and Marshall Pennington 

Dear Erik, Omar, and Mr. and Mrs. Cruz,

I am heartbroken for your family. I am so very sorry for your loss.

I was not lucky enough to have the chance to be Erika's teacher at Willow Creek, but I talked to her often in the halls. I also enjoyed watching her play basketball when she was in middle school. I remember her as someone who had joy in her eyes and smile on her face. She was one of those people who had inner light; she glowed from within. That light drew people to her. She was clearly loved and cherished by her friends, teachers, and family. 

You are in my prayers and in my thoughts.

Mrs. Chris Harmon

Words cannot express my sorrow.  I had the privilege of having Erika in class.  She had a zest for life and a personality that brightened the room when she came in.  I remember Erika's smile and laugh.   Her interactions with other students and staff, always willing to help someone in need.  She was very active in the charitable efforts at Mayo, helping raise money to help the community organizations.  To me, Erika was a shining light who brightened our days.  Erika will live on in my heart.       

I just want to tell you, while I teach at Mayo high school I did not know your daughter.  I clicked on her obituary and saw her face and she looks like an angel. I too, lost my child, at the age of 16 1/2 years very unexpectedly 7 years ago..I just want you to know you have someone who is here for you, for...whatever...it is an unbearable loss...???????

Know she ?is with you , always? she’s giving you your coping skills to even be able to process ?????I believe it with my whole being ???

**please do not publish**

I am sorry to learn of Erika's passing. My heart is so heavy for you. Erika was an office aide, I believe it was her freshman year, in the attendance office at Mayo High School when I served as an attendance secretary there. Erika was so positive, giving, full of life, and had goals and dreams beyond measure. She never passed by my office without stopping to say "hi" and check if I was having a good day. That was 4 years ago, but she left such an impression on me in that short amount of time, you can't forget an angel like her. Heaven has gained a ambitious angel. I'm so sorry for your loss.