The College of Humanities community is profoundly saddened by the loss of two of its students in a traffic collision Thursday night near the U of A campus. Sophia Akimi Troetel, a double major in Spanish and Psychology, and Josiah Patrick Santos, who was majoring in Theater Arts with a minor in Japanese, died at the scene, while a third student, Katya Castillo-Mendoza, died later from her injuries. They were all incredibly engaged and beloved members of the campus community.
Everyone in the College of Humanities sends condolences and deepest sympathies to Sophia’s, Josiah’s, and Katya’s families, friends and classmates during this extraordinarily difficult time.
“Sophia and Josiah were at the Dean’s List reception — arm in arm, smiles wide, glowing with pride and love. Her Dean’s List honor was more than an achievement—it was a reflection of her brilliance, her effort, her heart. Sophia treats every soul with respect, compassion, and care. To know her is to be changed by her,” said advisor Rae LaBar Palmer.
Advisor Vanessa Valenzuela said Sophia was “a sweetheart and full of light. She had a way of brightening every room she entered with her kindness, laughter, and warmth.”
A memorial to Sophia has been added to the communal ofrenda for Día de los Muertos hosted by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese in the hallway outside of Modern Languages Room 545.
Josiah is remembered by instructor Daiki Suematsu as “a warm-hearted, respectful, and hardworking student who always brought a bright smile to class. His gentle smile and positive presence encouraged everyone around him. He will be remembered with deep respect and affection by everyone in our class.”
“Although my time with Josiah was short since meeting him this summer, it was truly an honor to have been his teacher. I will always remember how his smile, humor, and creativity brought warmth and joy to everyone around him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all of us,” said Atsuko Uemura, another instructor.
If you or others you know need support, please connect with Campus Health's Counseling & Psych Services (CAPS). For guidance on how to address this tragedy in your classes and other spaces, resources are available on the CAPS website. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help or to encourage others to do so.