SAN DIEGO – A Scripps Health nurse died Saturday leaving behind a 4-year-old daughter after an alleged drunk driver caused a head-on collision in 4S Ranch, police said.

The California Highway Patrol said a 34-year-old woman was drunk when she drove a Toyota minivan the wrong way on Camino del Norte and slammed head-on into a Toyota Corolla driven by Sarita Shakya Saturday just before midnight. The 38-year-old mother died instantly.  The driver was arrested.

“There’s a little girl who is 4 years old who doesn’t have a mom anymore,” Simone Gieselman said as she was walking to the Shakya’s house with flowers in hand Monday. “I don`t honestly think it does a lot, but maybe at least they know we’re here just a few houses down the road if they need anything.”

Christina Macier lives across the street from the Shakya family and said Shakya was an extremely warm and kind person.

“Anytime you ever see her, she’s always smiling and saying ‘hello’ greeting you,” Macier said.

Officials at Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego released a statement after learning of Shakya’s death.

“Sarita was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister and sister-in-law to all of us. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her joy, beauty and enthusiasm for life were heart-warming.”

Neighbors were in shock and devastated for the family, especially so close to the holidays. They say it`s a needless tragedy and a reminder to everyone not to get behind the wheel when you drink alcohol.

“It’s so easy to catch an Uber to not drive under the influence. There’s no excuse,” Macier said.