Irishman killed in horror US crash was about to welcome third child
Damien O'Brien had moved to America more than a decade ago from his native Killygordon in Co. Donegal. The 35-year-old was struck by a car in the early hours of Sunday while walking home from a night out with friends near Huntington Beach in California.
A 21-year-old driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. Mr O'Brien and his wife Michelle have two sons, Luke and Oscar, and are expecting a third child in September. Mr O'Brien worked as vice president of operations with TM Grady Builders. Pic: GoFundMe
He was a well-known and loved member of the Irish community in the area and was a member of the Wild Geese GAA Club.
Mr O'Brien worked as vice president of operations with TM Grady Builders. The company has launched a GoFundMe page, which has received a huge response from the local community. Organiser TM Grady said Mr O'Brien was known for his 'dedication, warmth, wisdom, and professionalism'.
Mr Grady added: '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 6.
'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.' Mr Grady encouraged people to donate to the fund, saying all donations will go to Mr O'Brien's family to help with monthly bills and any unexpected expenses. At the time of writing, more than $100,000 had been raised for Mr O'Brien's family. Pic: USAGAA / Facebook
'We can make a difference in Damien's family's life by coming together to support them during this challenging time,' he added.
Friends paid tribute to Mr O'Brien and recalled happier days. Noel Martin said: 'So sorry for this tragic loss. Such a great lad, we have some great laughs at college with Damien, who always brought a smile and a laugh. One of the most genuine people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting.'
In a statement, USGAA said: 'With heavy hearts, USGAA is extremely saddened to inform you of the tragic passing of LA Geese member Damien O'Brien. Damien was hit and killed by a drunk driver yesterday.
'The company Damien worked for has set up a GoFundMe to help alleviate the financial stress his sudden passing has caused his family. Please help support them with current and future bills by kindly donating what you can to his heartbroken family.'
At the time of writing, more than $100,000 had been raised for Mr O'Brien's family. The crash happened at around 12.45 am on Sunday at the intersection of Atlanta Avenue and Delaware Street, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
Officers said the pedestrian, identified only as a 35-year-old man from Huntington Beach, was struck by a black Audi RS5. Police arrived and found him unconscious in the street, their news release said.
A statement by the police department said: 'Paramedics were called to the scene. However, the pedestrian was later pronounced deceased. Impairment is suspected with the driver of the Audi RS5. He was taken into custody at the scene without incident.'
The suspect has not yet been identified. The investigation is ongoing and being handled by the Huntington Beach Police Department Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team.
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