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A band based out of Merced is grieving the loss of one of its members who died in a crash in Fresno County on Saturday.
The band, Banda La Más Pedida, has started a GoFundMe fundraiser to raise money for a funeral service for Juan Jesús Rivera Zepeda, 33.
“We are facing a profound loss that deeply saddens us, and we are seeking to raise funds to provide a dignified farewell and memorial service for our dear colleague, Juan Jesús Rivera Zepeda,” the fundraiser says.
The three-vehicle crash was reported at about 4:20 p.m. on Saturday. Six other people, the three drivers and three passengers, were taken to a hospital with injuries ranging from moderate to major.
CHP does not suspect alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash.
“We also want to offer our support to our colleagues who are critically ill and fighting for their lives at the Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno, California,” the GoFundMe post says. “Today, more than ever, we need to come together as a family, as colleagues, and as a community to support one another during this time of grief and uncertainty.”
The GoFundMe has raised $4,180 out of a goal of $5,000 as of Wednesday afternoon.
The Modesto Bee
Jim Silva has been involved in covering local sports and news for The Modesto Bee and Merced Sun-Star since 1996. He graduated with a degree in journalism from San Jose State.