EASTSIDE : Group Hopes to Save Riot Victim’s Home

Several business owners have joined to raise money to help Fidel Lopez and his family recover from his attack in last year’s riots.

Lopez, 48, was one of the first victims of the unrest when he was pulled from his truck at Florence and Normandie avenues and beaten unconscious before his pants were pulled down and genitals spray-painted. Damian Monroe Williams, 20, was recently convicted of simple assault for spray-painting Lopez.

Businesswoman Sandy Pina said she could not believe Lopez has not received help from the city or other government agencies: “Mr. Lopez and his family are still experiencing much emotional and physical trauma from the brutal beating he experienced on April 29, and the citizens of East Los Angeles plan to ensure that he and his family will no longer be considered the forgotten victims.”

The group has organized a Saturday fund-raiser at Steven’s Steakhouse in Commerce, in which actress and recording artist Liz Navar has agreed to produce and direct the entertainment. El Centro Substance Abuse Program, 1972 E. Brooklyn Ave., has agreed to oversee the fund.

Pina hopes to raise $25,000 to get the Lopez home out of foreclosure and pay for outstanding medical expenses. The group also hopes to find doctors and counseling services willing to help the family.

“Sometimes I can’t forget,” Lopez said. “Sometimes I stay mad. Maybe I can forgive them. I say that I believe in God and he knows who did wrong.”

Information: (213) 265-9228.