A YOUNG Irishman who was killed after being knocked down by a drunk driver in California was expecting his third baby later this year.
Popular Damien O’Brien from Donegal died after being struck by a car in a suburb of California in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Damien O’Brien had been living in the USA for over 10 years[/caption]
The young dad sadly passed away at the scene of the incident[/caption]
The driver of the car that hit him, a 21-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Damien, 35, is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle and their two young sons, Oscar and Luke.
The couples third baby boy is due in September.
The family had been living near Los Angeles for over a decade.
Damien, who was Vice President of Operations at TM Grady Builders, has been remembered as an “extraordinary man” by heartbroken loved ones following the tragic incident.
His employer, Tim Grady launched a GoFundMe page in the hopes that money raised will help the O’Brien family deal with unexpected costs.
Tim wrote: “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.
“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 #3 due in September.
“Your donation will go to Damien’s family to help with monthly bills and any unexpected expenses.”
O’Grady told how the community can “make a difference” in Damien’s family’s life by “coming together to support them” during this time.
He added: “Thank you from the TM Grady Family on behalf of the O’Brien family.”
The United States Gaelic Athletic Association urged anyone who can to donate to the ‘Aid for Damien O’Brien’s Family After Tragic Loss‘ fundraiser.
‘HE WAS ONE OF A KIND’
It added: “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 and he leaves behind his wife, Michelle, and his two young sons, Oscar and Luke, along with baby boy #3 due in September.
“The company that 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.”
Shane Connolly Car Sales LTD, which Damien worked at before setting off to America in 2013, said they are “devastated” at the news of his passing.
They said: “He helped us out so much at the start setting up the business. Damien could turn his hand to anything and worked plenty of late nights. He was one of a kind.”
Police officers said Damien was struck by a black Audi RS5 in the Huntington Beach area.
Huntington Beach PD 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.”
Police said the collision investigation is ongoing and urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it to come forward.
