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The Tucson community gathers to remember Zahriya Demi Moreno, who died after an incident of domestic violence

TUCSON, Arizona (13 News) – It was a somber but loving scene at Armory Park in Tucson on Friday night as hundreds gathered to honor the lives of Zahirya Demi Morenowho died earlier this week as a result of a domestic violence incident.

Many also gathered at the Aveda Institute, where Zahriya attended school, to support her family and celebrate her life.

“I have known the children since they were four years old. We were neighbors. We were friends,” said Doreen Meilke.

Some of the participants of the vigil and fundraiser in Aveda Institute were classmates or teachers of Zahirya during her time at the school. Below is a photo of her celebrating her recent graduation.

“Zahriya was in my first class. It's a class of 12 students, so I was able to help her learn aesthetics,” said Marissa Aguirre, aesthetics teacher at the Aveda Institute.

But among the hundreds who came to support the Moreno family were complete strangers, and many of them came together to show their support with an impromptu ride down Sixth Avenue.

“This is what we do as a community, as a lowrider community, as a biker community. We come together, you know, for anyone who needs it,” said Elois Amontoya, a member of the Dignity Car Club.

The ride, which included dozens of Tucson residents, was organized by a complete stranger who said Zahriya's story touched her deeply.

“I just called everyone and said, 'Let's just go to the vigil,'” said Diana Ponce, a member of the Life Car Club.

The ride began at Circle K on Sixth Avenue and ended at Aveda Institute, where Zahriya graduated. The school hosted a vigil to bring even more people together in her honor.

“More than anything, the girls wanted to be together again where they first met and to strengthen their sisterhood together. And the fact that the event has grown so big shows how much love and support Yaya has received,” said Aguirre.

The afternoon of events showed the strength of the Tucson community, according to participants

“You think Tucson is a big city, but it's not. It's actually a small town, and people are there for each other when it comes to things like this,” said Elois Amontoya, a member of the Dignity Car Club.

As the fight for justice continues, events like today's mean everything to Zahriya, family members say.

“I think this is a great way to honor her. And I think she would be overwhelmed, too. I'm sure, I think she can see this, and there are still tears in heaven. She's probably crying tears of joy right now,” said Moreno's father, Robert.

The Moreno family decided to donate Zahriya's organs when it was clear she wasn't going to make it. You can watch an emotional video of their Honor Walk in Banner on Wednesday below. For more information on the Donor Network of Arizona, click here: HERE.

Zahriya Moreno, the woman who was seriously injured in a domestic violence incident in Pima County on Monday, has donated her organs to save the lives of others.

Zahriya's boyfriend, Angelito Adrian Olivas, said the two had an argument early Monday morning. He claims she jumped on the trunk of his vehicle as he was driving away. According to court documents, he said he didn't stop even though he knew she was holding on. He said she fell and hurt herself, so he took her to a fire station for help. Zahirya was taken to Banner and never recovered.

Olivas, 25, was arrested for aggravated assault but was quickly released on $2,500 bail.

“It almost seemed like a joke to me. I am disappointed in the judge. In the legal system,” said Zahirya's father Robert.

Pima County District Attorney Laura Conover spoke to 13 News about how low bail is causing problems across the country. Read more HERE. She said her lawyer had asked for $10,000 bail, but it was denied. She said there is a possibility that the judge was never told how severe Zahirya's injuries were and/or that because Zahirya was in the hospital, she was unable to do a risk assessment for Olivas.

If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence situation, know that help is available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Tucson-based Emerge Center against domestic violence at 1-888-428-0101.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department confirmed that 22-year-old Zahriya Moreno was injured Monday...
The Pima County Sheriff's Department confirmed that 22-year-old Zahriya Moreno was injured in the incident Monday morning. Angelito Adrian Olivas was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault.(Pima County Sheriff's Department)

To help the family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched. As with the Honor Walk on Wednesday and the vigil on Friday, the Tucson community is showing its support for the family. As of 10 p.m. Friday, more than $35,000 has been raised. You can help by HERE.

“Thank you for standing by us during this difficult time. Your support and kindness are very much appreciated and bring comfort to our grieving hearts,” the family wrote in the report.

The family hoped to raise $112 with the GoFundMe campaign. This number has a special meaning for the Morenos.

Zahirya's twin brother Izac died in an accident in 2021. According to Robert, 112 was his son's favorite number. This number also appeared on Wednesday when Zahirya's organs were to be harvested at 1:12 p.m.

Robert told 13 News that Zahirya was very strong even after her brother's death.

“Mom often heard her crying alone in her room because she didn't want everyone else to see her weakness. We relied on her strength and I hope that we can somehow fill that gap now,” said Robert.

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