San Diego planned to kick off its annual Comic-Con on Thursday just like they always have; by generating excitement for their numerous fanatics across the globe.  However, that was not the case as tragedy struck when 53 year-old Gisela Gagliardi was killed in downtown San Diego just outside the event's convention center.

While attempting to cross the street in order to attend a Breaking Dawn Parts I & II discussion panel, the "Twilight" fan was hit by a car.  Unconscious and bleeding severally, paramedics rushed to the scene but were unsuccessful.

Gagliardi was just one of the many who devoutly flock to the character-driven holy grail.  Equipped with child-like enthusiasm for her favorite series, the "Twi-hard" had recently reached out on her Twitter touching on her guilty pleasures; which included more than one "Twilight" shout out; she described herself as a ""Lover of in no particular order: Twilight books, movies, etc., Hugh Jackman, Robert Pattinson, travelling, NYC, Australia, cats...."

Comic-Con regular Alan Kistler recently spoke to CNN on the matter and had the following to say:

"I think we're already seeing yet another clear sign that there needs to be some changes in how certain things are run.  People started lining up for Hall H on Monday," he said. "Not only is that absurd, it's already proven to be dangerous as one person has actually died. Yes, she was jay-walking and didn't have the right of way. But I don't think she or anyone else should have been allowed to line up so early anyway.  It's absurd and it's not a place free of traffic."

With the popularity of the convention on a continual rise, crowds are said to be growing yearly to a dangerous number. Obtaining tickets or locking down an overnight stay has become increasingly harder.  The extravaganza has indeed found itself a cult following in terms of its audience. 

Although the level of enthusiasm for the Comic-Con is nothing less than positive, let's hope that Gagliardi's passing does not go unnoticed.

Tags: Comic-Con Celebrities television