Honoring the Life and Legacy of Ariana Zarse
On October 9, 2021, the world lost an extraordinary young woman. Ariana Zarse—known as Ari to her friends and family—was tragically taken in a hit-and-run accident that forever altered the lives of those who knew and loved her. The loss of Ariana is a story of unimaginable grief and a legal system that, at times, falls short of delivering the justice victims and their families deserve.
Despite the existence of overwhelming evidence—including video footage, DNA, and eyewitness accounts—the individuals responsible for Ariana’s death were never held accountable. This heartbreaking reality underscores the urgent need for systemic change and greater accountability in our communities.
Yet, Ariana’s legacy is one of inspiration. Her vibrant spirit, her boundless love for life, and her dedication to her friends and family remind us why we must continue to fight for justice. She was a shining light, deeply involved in her community and the University of Georgia (UGA) as the Director of Social Events for Pi Beta Phi Sorority, a participant in on-campus philanthropy events, and a beloved employee at Saucehouse and Boar’s Head Lounge.
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Ariana’s memory fuels a commitment to making our community safer. In her honor, significant improvements have been made at the East Broad Crosswalk near the railroad tracks. The crosswalk was completed in December 2024, featuring new Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) lights, enhanced signage, and refreshed thermoplastic markings. While it’s a shame that it took so long, with ACCGov waiting for a GDOT grant to fund the necessary improvements, we are proud to have advocated for these critical safety measures.
A Celebration of Ariana Through Music and Community
On March 22, 2025, Pi Beta Phi Sorority will host a special event to honor Ariana’s life and legacy: Ari’s Battle of the Bands. This event, dedicated to her love of music and social events, will bring together the UGA community to celebrate her spirit and raise funds for a cause close to her heart.
All proceeds from the event will benefit The University of Georgia’s Sunshine Fund. Established by a group of UGA parents in 2020 through the university’s Student Care & Outreach, the Sunshine Fund supports the mental well-being of UGA students. It provides financial assistance for mental health services and helps mitigate circumstances negatively affecting students’ well-being. More information about the fund can be found here.
Ariana’s Battle of the Bands promises to be a heartfelt celebration of her life, with live music and a sense of community that Ari would have cherished. Follow @arisbattleofthebands on Instagram for updates and announcements about the event lineup, purchase your tickets here.
Continuing the Fight for Justice
As we remember Ariana, we remain committed to advocating for accountability and systemic change. No parent should endure the loss of a child, especially without justice. Her story is a powerful reminder of why we must come together to protect and uplift our community.
To learn more about Ariana’s story, click here, where her father, Jeff Zarse, shares her incredible journey and the impact of her loss. Ariana’s life continues to inspire us to strive for a better, safer world. Thank you for standing with us in her memory. Together, we can ensure her legacy lives on and make meaningful change in her honor.
#WhyWeCare #ArianasLegacy #JusticeForAriana #SafeAthens