Nearly $30,000 has been raised in the days since Ronih Murat Pacal was killed during a robbery as they look to send his body back to Turkey following his death.
Shortly after 3 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, officers were called to the 6700 block of New Hampshire Avenue, where they found Pacal outside suffering from a gunshot wound.
He was pronounced dead at the scene, though no shooting suspect has been identified by the Prince George's County Police Department.
Now, friends and family of Pacal are calling on the community to raise money to send his body to Igdir in Turkey, where they hope to lay him to rest.
Pacal left behind a doting wife and two children - aged 4 and 6 - who have been devastated by his unexpected death, they say.
"Ronih was not just a victim; he was a devoted husband and father, a friend who brightened our lives with his kindness and warmth," organizers of a GoFundMe campaign for the family wrote.
"Now, we have the opportunity to give back to him and his grieving family. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant impact."
In just four days, more than $25,000 has been raised by 240 donors as of Tuesday, Dec. 12 after Pacal's "life was cut short by senseless violence when he fell victim to a robbery."
"Let us come together as a community to ease the burden on Ronih's family during this difficult period," organizers wrote.
"Your support will not only help cover the financial strain but also provide comfort to a family grappling with the sudden loss of their beloved husband, father and brother."
Those interested in donating to the family can do so here.
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