'Heartbroken': Family Of Man Killed In Long Beach Crash Creates Fundraiser For Funeral Costs

LONG BEACH, CA — The family of a man killed while crossing the street in Long Beach on Sundayhas started a fundraiser to help pay for his funeral and help support his children.

Omar Tovar, 36, was crossing Pacific Coast Highway, west of Golden Avenue, around 6:38 p.m. when the driver of a car going westbound hit him, according to authorities. Tovar died at the scene.

Police say the driver was not speeding, distracted or impaired before the crash. They remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation, according to the Long Beach Police Department.

"Our beloved brother, father, and friend Omar was tragically taken from us after being struck by a vehicle," his sister Erica Moreno said in a statement on GoFundMe. "The suddenness of his passing has left all of us heartbroken, especially his five beautiful children — three sons and two daughters — and his loving girlfriend."

Tovar's family described him as "a bright light" that shone in every room he walked into and "the life of the party."

"He was a strong, kind, respectful person and so full of life," Moreno wrote. "He had a way of lifting everyone's spirits with his endless jokes and unforgettable smile. To know Omar was to love him — he had a loyal heart, a generous spirit and a laugh you'd never forget."

The fundraiser started by Moreno has so far raised $8,722 out of its $20,000 goal.

"We are asking for help to give Omar the farewell he deserves and to support his children during this incredibly difficult time," Moreno wrote. "Your donation, no matter the amount, will go toward funeral expenses and helping his children as they navigate life without their dad."