MURRIETA — Friends, family and members of the community are raising money to support the wife and two young children of a Murrieta man who was killed last week in a suspected drunk driving crash in Temecula.
An online fundraiser has been launched for the family of 39-year-old David Heard, who was killed Friday, July 24, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. As of Monday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $21,000 of a $50K goal with 240 donations to help with funeral expenses and provide financial support for Heard’s wife, Elsie, and the couple’s two children. https://gofund.me/71fba12e8
The fundraiser describes Heard as a devoted husband and father who was known for putting others before himself. Organizers say he was helping others at the scene when he lost his life.
“David was the heart of their family, always putting others before himself and showing up for those in need,” the fundraiser states.
According to organizers, the donations will help cover funeral costs and assist the family as they adjust to the sudden loss of their husband and father.
The fatal collision occurred about 6:51 p.m. Friday at the intersection of Rancho California Road and Riesling Court, east of Interstate 15.
Deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department’s Southwest Station responded to reports of a multi-vehicle collision and found three heavily damaged vehicles and Heard, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said 38-year-old Jonathan Ruiz of Bellflower was one of the drivers involved in the crash and was allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Ruiz was arrested and booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center on suspicion of murder and driving under the influence causing injury.
Two passengers from one of the involved vehicles were transported to a local hospital with injuries described as stable.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Deputy Samuel Strizver at the Southwest Sheriff’s Station at 951-696-3000 or the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office at 951-776-1099.
The fundraiser remains active for those wishing to support the Heard family as they face the emotional and financial challenges left in the wake of the tragedy.
