Trista Loftus Stordahl dies in fatal SLO County crash
Trista Loftus Stordahl dies in fatal SLO County crash
Fatal SLO County crash death of Trista Loftus Stordahl – Obituary.
Trista Loftus Stordahl, a 21-year-old resident of Nipomo, tragically lost her life in a collision on Highway 58 on September 12, 2024. Her passing has deeply affected the communities across SLO County, where she was celebrated for her vibrant spirit and numerous talents.
Known for her skills as a dancer, cheerleader, and mixed martial artist, Trista’s mother, Tierra Loftus Stordahl, shared with The Tribune how her daughter made a significant impact in her brief life. “In her 21 years, Trista experienced more love and adventure than many do in a lifetime,” her mother reflected.
Trista’s journey in competitive mixed martial arts began early; she earned the nickname “Firecracker” at the age of six, recognized for her dynamic fighting style and her striking red hair. “She demonstrated her tenacity by taking on a larger and more skilled opponent,” her mother noted.
By the age of 14, Trista was already competing in the United States Fight League and achieving championship titles. “Whatever she set her mind to, she not only accomplished but excelled beyond our expectations,” Loftus Stordahl added.
In addition to her martial arts career, Trista was a cheer captain during her senior year at Atascadero High School and recently engaged in line dancing at Libertine Brewery, a passion she shared with her mother. “I was not talented, but she made even my clumsy attempts look good,” her mother admitted.
Jordyn Hilliker, a line dancing instructor and close friend, described Trista as someone who brought “endless energy” to the dance floor. “She always had a smile that brightened every room,” Hilliker said, promising to dance in her memory from now on.
Trista was actively involved in volunteering with the Conservation Ambassadors at Zoo to You in Paso Robles and had plans to begin nursing school in September, with aspirations of joining the U.S. Air Force.
Those who knew Trista will remember her not only for her many accomplishments but also for her kindness and infectious personality. “She was a friend to all, welcoming everyone into the dance community with open arms,” Hilliker stated. Her mother emphasized, “She was the cheerleader for everyone.”
A GoFundMe page established in Trista’s honor has raised over $11,200 as of September 18, and her family expressed heartfelt appreciation for the community’s support during this difficult time. “This means so much to us,” Loftus Stordahl said.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, at 4 p.m. at Zoo to You in Paso Robles, welcoming all who loved Trista.
Trista is survived by her parents, Tierra and Timothy Loftus Stordahl; sister Trinity; brothers Trey and James; along with other relatives. The California Highway Patrol confirmed her identity following the tragic accident.
Trista Loftus Stordahl dies in fatal SLO County crash Fatal SLO County crash death of Trista Loftus Stordahl – Obituary. Trista Loftus Stordahl, a 21-year-old resident of Nipomo, tragically lost her life in a collision on Highway 58 on September 12, 2024. Her passing has deeply affected the communities across SLO County, where she was…
Trista Loftus Stordahl dies in fatal SLO County crash Fatal SLO County crash death of Trista Loftus Stordahl – Obituary. Trista Loftus Stordahl, a 21-year-old resident of Nipomo, tragically lost her life in a collision on Highway 58 on September 12, 2024. Her passing has deeply affected the communities across SLO County, where she was…