Community Corner
Fundraiser Underway For California Dad Killed On Father's Day
Octavio Escatel was allegedly hit by a teen driver who was under the influence. He leaves behind three children.
ESCONDIDO, CA -- A fundraiser was underway Monday for the family of an Escondido dad who was killed after being hit by an alleged drunk driver on Father's Day. Octavio Escatel left behind three children, according to a GoFundMe page created for his family.
The California Highway Patrol said Escatel, 38, stopped to help the driver of a Jeep push his car off a highway when a 17-year-old in a Toyota Rav4 struck him. The driver of the Jeep was knocked to the ground and suffered head trauma, while Escatel was killed at the scene.
CHP officers arrested the teen on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and during a search of his Rav4, they allegedly found a loaded handgun, drugs and drug paraphernalia.
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Now, loved ones are asking the public to help Escatel's family.
"My brother leaves behind his three young children, ages 16, 12 and 9," the GoFundMe page said. "We are asking everyone for their support."
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As of Monday, the fundraiser received more than $13,000 in donations.
For more information or to donate, go to gofundme.com.
--City News Service contributed to this report/Patch is a GoFundMe promotional partner
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