Beloved business owner fighting for her life after freak accident along U.S. 60 in Mesa

MESA (AZFamily)—Friends and family describe 26-year-old Victoria Cardenas as a kind, caring, and compassionate woman whose vibrant personality brings a smile to everyone around her.

Cardenas means a lot to many people, and they’re not ready to say goodbye.

The East Valley business owner was involved in a horrific car crash Monday afternoon and is currently in critical condition at the Desert Banner Medical Center in Mesa.

Victoria’s mother, Amber Cardenas, said her daughter had to be pried out of her vehicle.

“It’s a miracle she’s alive,” said Amber. “She was trapped underneath there. There isn’t much of her car left.”

Victoria was driving Eastbound along the U.S 60 freeway, near the Ironwood exit, when an older pick-up truck carrying a flatbed full of long metal pipes crashed into her, authorities said.

The truck reportedly lost control, jackknifed, and then swerved across the median into oncoming traffic, slamming into Victoria’s car.

She was rushed to the hospital with multiple skull fractures and broken bones.

She is currently in a coma.

“I just try and keep her calm because I know it is scary,’ said Amber. ” I know she hears me, when she hears my voice, I just say mommy is here, you are in hospital and you are going to get better, don’t be scared, I am here.”

Victoria owns a ceramics shop in Apache Junction called Tor’s Mudslinger.

It’s a business her mother says her daughter is very passionate about.

Friends have set up a GoFundMe page to help Victoria while she’s in the hospital.

Everyone is hoping and praying that Victoria will recover.

“She’s a fighter,” said Victoria’s mother. “I know, I have faith that she’s going to come back. I know my baby is going to be OK, I know it.”

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the driver of the truck has been cited for failing to control his vehicle to avoid a collision and not wearing a seatbelt.

There could be additional charges.

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