'Extraordinary' Teen, Soccer Star Dies In Costa Mesa Stabbing: How To Help

COSTA MESA, CA — The Orange County community is grieving the loss of a 15-year-old girl who was taken far too soon.

Allison Castillo was walking down the street on Saturday, Aug. 9 when she became the victim of what her family members call a "senseless act of violence" that she did not survive.

According to police, Allison was found by officers on the sidewalk on the 700 block of Shalimar Drive with a stab wound. Despite life-saving procedures, Allison died of her injuries.

Authorities said detectives and Gang Unit investigators established that it was a gang-related attack.

The man suspected of stabbing the victim was quickly identified and subsequently located in Anaheim. Saturday evening, with the assistance of the Anaheim Police Department, suspected gang member Matthew Juarez, 31, was arrested at his home without further incident.

Family members Yoana Legaspi and Dolores Castillo told Patch that Allison was an extraordinary soccer player who had been accepted to travel to Spain to play the sport she loved.

She was a staunch athlete whose talent and dedication opened incredible doors — Legaspi said this special nature followed her on and off the field.

"Off the field, Allison was the life of the party — always bringing joy, laughter and warmth to everyone around her," Castillo told Patch. "She was someone you could always count on, no matter what, and she gave her heart to everyone she met."

Family members have set up a GoFundMe account to help provide financial aid to the Castillo family during this time.

Legaspi and Castillo told Patch that Allison was a "kind soul" who "didn't deserve what happened to her."

"We demand justice for Allison, and we will not stop until those responsible are held accountable," the family's GoFundMe page read.

Orange County residents can help donate to the Castillo family by visiting the family's GoFundMe page.