For many who gathered at Chicano Park in Barrio Logan on Wednesday for Dia De Los Muertos, it was a night to pay tribute to the four people killed beneath the bridge last month and the loss of a well-known community figure.
Dozens of people gathered to pay tribute to the lives of loved ones they had lost.
A shrine of candles and flowers was also placed beneath the Coronado Bridge where the deadly crash happened on Oct. 15. A Navy Chief Petty Officer drove off the Coronado bridge, crashing into the crowd of people gathered in Chicano Park.
Four people were killed and several others were injured.
The crowd also celebrated the life of Ramon “Chunky” Sanchez, a musician and cultural leader in the Chicano community of San Diego.
He died on Friday.
“He was good man,” said Ruben Juarez. “He was a great individual and loved to share his talent with people. His words had meaning.”
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Sanchez wrote the song "Chicano Park Samba" which talks about the culture, spirit and struggles of the Chicano community.
“That brought an appreciation of culture to people. That brought an understanding in more ways than speeches could [have], and what it was like to live that day-to-day struggle,” said Paul Aceves.
Aceves was at the gathering to remember Sanchez, as well as Ernesto Bustillo, founder of Union Del Barrio.
“His music is timeless,” said Cathy Espitia, speaking of Sanchez. “As long as there's struggle, his music is timeless.”
Sanchez's family posted memorial services for him.
There will be a public viewing from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday at Centro Cultural de la Raza. On Saturday, a prayer service at the Chicano Park Kiosko will be held at 11:30 a.m., which will be followed by a private procession and burial.
On Sunday, the community is invited for a celebration of life at 12 p.m. in Chicano Park.
