Father of 6 Adopted Kids Dies at 39 While Going to Work after Holidays — Tragic Details

Jerry Lopez’s life as a devoted father of seven and loving husband ended tragically at 39. His wife, Karen Lopez, fondly recalls their 13-year marriage, filled with simple joys and unexpected dances while cooking.

In addition to having one biological child, the couple’s generous hearts led them to adopt six children from foster care, creating a family bonded not by blood but by unconditional love.

Lopez, a driver at a medical company, had recently been promoted, a testament to his hard work in maintaining a large family. “He was just so proud,” his widow says.

Their last Christmas together was particularly joyous, marking a sharp contrast to the grief that would soon envelop them. Karen reflects, “This year with his promotion we were able to spoil the kids like we never have before.”

On the fateful morning of December 27, 2023, Lopez’s routine drive to work turned deadly. In a horrific turn of events, while on his way, he encountered a violent carjacking spree.

A suspect, identified as Justin Davidson, after killing his mother and engaging in a shootout with police, confronted Lopez. While fleeing from officials through the Southwest Valley, Davidson shot Lopez, took control of his van, and fatally wounded him.

In the aftermath, the Lopez family was left reeling not only from Jerry’s untimely death but also from the loss of their primary vehicle. Their family van, essential to their daily lives, was destroyed in the incident.

Their eldest child, only 11, sent texts to his father’s phone, expressing a heart-wrenching sentiment: “I know daddy isn’t going to answer but I hope daddy can still read the messages and know I love him.”

Karen’s words echo the profound grief of loss: “We were supposed to grow old together and raise them together,” a future now unattainable. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated by friends to support the Lopez family during this harrowing time.