brian and rosie 

Photo of couple killed in Lakewood car crash courtesy of GoFundMe site. 

The family of a young Long Beach couple killed when a suspected drunk driver collided with their vehicle in Lakewood Tuesday night are asking for donations to help with funeral expenses.

Brian Urquia, 30, and his fiance Rosie Williams, 24, died immediately after the collision, which happened at 9:30PM at Paramount and Del Amo boulevards, according to Sgt. J. Jobling of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Lakewood Station.

The other motorist was treated at a hospital for unspecified injuries.

“As Brian and Rosie were driving home a drunk driver crashed into their car killing both of them instantly,” Brian’s father Abel Urquia stated on a GoFundMe page created to help pay for funeral costs.

The couple was getting ready to get married in October, according to Abel.

“We are devastated with this terrible event and ask for your support,” the father wrote. “Every contribution is a meaningful show of support to both families. Please keep them in you thoughts and prayers.”

Family and friends took to Facebook this week to express sadness and remember the couple.

“Rosie was that rare soul who deserved the world and gave the world to those around her,” said longtime friend Darian Nichole Gomez in a post. “I’ve known her for many-many years and every time I would see her, no matter what mood, she always brightened my days dramatically.”

“To those that think they are invincible from tragedy, to those who drink and drive, to those who take life for granted…anything can happen but this could have been prevented,” Gomez noted.

A man identifying himself as Williams’ brother reflected on who he called a unique and funny young woman.

“Please reflect on the most beautifully kind, goofy and best singing friend I have ever had,” stated the brother, Anthony.

Jonathan Mejia, who first met Brian when he was 13, reflected on Wednesday on a summer vacation to Long Beach made memorable by Brian.

“Brian Urquia became a great friend of mine and made that summer one of the best ones of my life,” Mejia commented. “Today I found out that he passed away and I am lost for words. I still can’t believe the news and still don’t know how to process this. But I will keep your family in my prayers my friend. Rest In Peace.”

Services will be held at All Souls Mortuary in Long Beach at an undetermined date, according to the fundraising site, which has raised nearly $12,000 of the requested $10,000 as of Friday afternoon. 

Stephanie Rivera is the community engagement editor. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter at @StephRivera88.