Grandpa robbed of job supply funds

On Tuesday morning, July 28 at 11am, a crime of opportunity was committed against my father. Al Lopez, 72, a retired landscape contractor who was returning to work due to the pandemic and to help provide for his family, was assaulted and robbed while pumping gas at the Sinclaires convenience store and gas station, located at 247 E. Olive Ave and Fwy. 99.

My Dad had just cashed a check at Wells Fargo bank, on W. Shaw Ave. The check was an advance on an upcoming landscaping job. It was not his personal funds but money in which to begin the project. The funds were all cash in a bank envelope. After removing $20 for gas, he put the envelope in his back pocket and pumped his gas. As he was getting back into his truck, a man ran up behind him and snatched the envelope out of his back pocket. There was a 2019 Nissan waiting for him with the back seat door opened. My father ran after him and was wrestling with him when the vehicle started pulling away at which the victim let go and injured his arm from hitting the street. He had several abrasions on his right arm.

We are asking for the community's help to replace the funds so that my dad can begin work on this project. The advance, $8000, he is responsible to replace. Without these funds, he cannot begin the project. Not only are the advance funds gone but the potential of any profit is lost.

At this point, he will be working on this project for free.

Alfred Lopez, a Vietnam War vet, received a bronze star during his service and lives with PTSD. He rarely thinks of himself and has always worked hard for his family. Before the recent pandemic, he attended services at Northwest Church regularly and loves the Lord. No matter what adversity comes his way, he always maintains an attitude of gratitude. This has helped him maintain 40 years of sobriety.

We realize everyone has been challenged by the pandemic and are barely getting by themselves. If you could donate only $1, with enough donors, it will greatly help Al to overcome this difficult time. We want to thank you for any help you may be able to give. If unable to help financially we certainly understand. Your prayers will be equally appreciated. We are truly grateful to God, that the 3 men (the assailant and the 2 men in the getaway car) did not have a gun and in the panic and scuffle, shoot him. We are so very thankful that did not happen and in comparison, our hearts are not broken today. We pray that the young men involved find peace with themselves, and not continue down the lives they have chosen.

Thank you and may God bless.