Maya Noemi Santana was a joyful, creative, and compassionate young woman whose presence lit up every room. Born on September 12, 2000, in Chula Vista, California, Maya had a deep love for her family, friends, and her feline companion, Larry. She adored Hello Kitty, dancing, music, and anything that allowed her to express herself with style and flair.
In 2018, Maya graduated from Granite Hills High School with a 3.5 GPA, a reflection of the hard work and determination she put into everything she did. After high school, she enrolled at Grossmont College while working at Boston Market and considering a variety of career paths. Among them, cosmetology stood out. Maya had a natural talent for hair and makeup—watching tutorials, practicing new techniques, and styling those around her with a confidence that revealed both skill and passion.
Maya loved to explore and create. She enjoyed shopping, beach days, video games, and vacations with her family. She had a curiosity about the world and a desire to experience it fully, often capturing her adventures through photos and selfies. Her sense of fun and spontaneity made her a magnetic presence—someone others were drawn to for her warmth, humor, and vibrant personality.
Behind her bright exterior, Maya faced real struggles. From the age of 14, she battled depression and sought support through therapy and medication. In ninth grade, she was the victim of a bullying incident that was recorded and shared online, a trauma that left lasting emotional wounds. Though she found strength through counseling and periods of stability, she also experienced setbacks. As she grew older, she began to take more risks, seeking belonging and escape in ways that ultimately led her down a dangerous path.
On March 2, 2020, at just 19 years old, Maya’s life was cut short by fentanyl poisoning—an accidental overdose that her family never could have anticipated. At the time, they were unaware of how deadly fentanyl could be, and like so many families affected by this crisis, they’ve since dedicated themselves to raising awareness so others don’t face the same loss.
Maya is remembered as a loving daughter, a devoted sister, and a cherished granddaughter, cousin, and friend. Her future was full of promise. Maya was intelligent, talented, and deeply loved. Her story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the urgency of understanding the dangers young people face. Though her time here was far too short, her impact remains—through the lives she touched, the love she gave, and the beautiful memories she left behind.
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