Jason Shields launches GoFundMe fundraiser for father of 3 killed in backhoe accident in Upper St. Clair

Jason James Defend, a father of three boys who lived within the Pittsburgh suburb of Higher St. Clair, was killed in a backhoe accident.

Heard, 52, was struck by the bucket when the excavator tipped over, in keeping with info from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Workplace.

The incident occurred simply after 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 30, 2024, within the 2200 block of Robinson Avenue in Stowe Township.

Allegheny County deputies had been known as to the scene and pronounced Shields lifeless. Authorities suspected no foul play and turned the investigation over to the Occupational Security and Well being Administration.

Following the tragedy, a GoFundMe marketing campaign was launched for Jason Shields’ surviving household (his spouse, Heather McKay Shields, and their three sons).

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“Please assist bless Heather and the kids after Jason’s passing. They are going to want our help within the coming days and that is one small method we as a neighborhood may help them,” reads the GoFundMe organized by Ann Marie Pirnat .

“Heather has all the time been beneficiant to her family and friends, so let’s take this chance to point out the identical like to her household of their time of want,”

this fundraiserThe purpose was $20,000, which was rapidly reached.

Mates additionally chimed in, paying tribute to Heard and praising what an exquisite individual he was. There are additionally quite a few messages pledging help to his surviving household.

“You’ll be able to go anyplace on this planet, however your favourite place is on the sidelines or within the stands at a soccer, hockey, or lacrosse sport together with your 3 boys. Now you’ve a chicken’s eye view of all of that. We love you.

One other mentioned: “He was an exquisite man and a good friend to many in our neighborhood. Heather, you and the kids are in my sincerest ideas and prayers. He might be significantly missed by many.”