A fund has been set up to help the family of a young Donegal father who was knocked down and killed by a drunk driver in the US at the weekend.
Popular Damien O’Brien (35), from Stoneybatter, Killygordon, lost his life after being struck by a car in California in the early hours of Sunday morning. The driver, aged 21, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Mr O’Brien had been living near Los Angeles with his wife Michelle, who is also from Donegal, for over a decade. They have two young boys, aged four and two, and their third boy is due in September.
The late Damien O’Brien along with his wife, Michelle, and their two young sons, Oscar and Luke.
A quantity surveyor, he was Vice President of Operations at TM Grady Builders.
A GoFundMe page, set up by his employer Tim Grady, has raised almost $90,000 (€76k) of its $200,000 (€170k) target since it was launched yesterday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the sudden passing of our Vice President of Operations, Damien O’Brien, in a tragic accident on Sunday July 6th,” Mr Grady said.
“Damien was an extraordinary man, a leader, and a beloved member of our TM Grady Builder family, known for his dedication, warmth, wisdom, and professionalism. His contributions to our projects and his genuine care for our clients left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him.
Damien is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle, their two young sons, Oscar and Luke, and baby boy number three due in September”.
Mr Grady said all donations will go to Damien’s family to help with monthly bills and any unexpected expenses.
“We can make a difference in Damien’s family’s life by coming together to support them during this challenging time. Thank you from the TM Grady Family on behalf of the O’Brien family.”
You can donate by clicking on the following LINK.
The late Damien O’Brien in action for the Wild Geese GAA Club in Orange County, California.
Meanwhile, the O’Brien family’s Parish Priest has described the tragic death of their son and brother as ‘every parent’s worst nightmare’.
Praying for the late Mr O’Brien at mass in St Patrick’s Church, Crossroads, Fr Patsy Arksinson PP said he spoke to the family and ‘they are all devastated.’
“His parents, Benny and Patricia, will fly out to California this afternoon (Monday),” he said.
“It’s just such an awful tragedy, they are all devastated – it’s every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Fr Arkinson said funeral arrangements have yet to be made.
Mr O’Brien, who is also survived by his two brothers and two sisters, had forged a successful career on the west coast and was heavily involved with the Wild Geese GAA Club in Orange County, California. He was also an established player with both Red Hughs and Setanta Hurling Club before he emigrated.
May he rest in peace.
The late Damien O’Brien. Pic courtesy of TM Grady Builders.