“They were so young and no parent should have to go through that,” said Sally Mellinger, a Baldwinsville resident.

New York State police say 11-year-old Maryella Annal and her 9-year-old sister Elizabeth died in a crash on the Thruway in Seneca County, after a pickup truck struck their vehicle.

Their parents Maureen and Thomas were airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries.

Baldwinsville resident Sally Mellinger says she volunteered with Maureen at 22Q at the Zoo in Syracuse, and she’s devastated to hear about the terrible loss. 

“They’re a loving family,” said Mellinger. “Tom and Maureen doted on their girls and they would do anything for them. They were always beaming and happy.”

The sisters attended Palmer Elementary School.

Superintendent Matthew McDonald said in a statement, “As a close-knit school community that loves our students deeply, our hearts are broken. Our thoughts are with the Annal family and friends.”

“We’re here for you,” said Mellinger. “We support you, and we know these days are not going to be easy. School is starting next week. You’ve got your school district, your neighborhood, your community behind you.”

Loved ones plan on tying blue and teal ribbons – the girls’ favorite colors -- to every mailbox in the neighborhood to honor them.

The driver of the pickup truck, Abraham Hara, 73, of Geneva, and the driver of the tractor-trailer were not hurt. The driver of the other passenger vehicle, Kelsy Wilson, 25, of Elmira was transported to Geneva General Hospital for evaluation. 

The crash is still under investigation and police charges are pending.