Dear Friends, Family, and Kind-hearted Strangers,

My name is Ruben Pacheco, born and raised in Venice, California. As most of you may know the southern California fires have been devastating and life changing. Now imagine going through that and then having hardships placed on top.

With that said, I’m reaching out to you with a heavy heart to help my close friend, Xavier, who has found himself in a deeply unjust and difficult situation after an attack that left him physically and emotionally scarred.

This all began with the devastating Palisades Fire in California, which forced Xavier from his home for weeks. Upon returning, trying to piece his life back together, he ran into further hardship. While retrieving his car, which had been left stranded at the base of the mountain during the fire, he was confronted by a disgruntled man who had recently moved into the area. The disgruntle man did not want Xavier there, and this led to an escalating confrontation. Despite Xavier’s best efforts to deescalate the situation and stay calm without reacting, the man became violently enraged and attacked him.

In an effort to protect himself while slipping consciousness from being pummeled, kicked and his head continuously shoved in to the concrete, Xavier had no choice but to defend himself using a utility knife which was in close proximity. After that being the only thing that got him off of Xavier, the attacker fled the scene, but police, without understanding the full story, assumed Xavier was the aggressor when they arrived. Now, Xavier is not only dealing with the trauma of an unwarranted attack and displacement from the Palisade’s fire, but also with the added stress of legal issues that could change his life.

What’s truly remarkable is that there is video evidence proving Xavier was the victim in this situation. A nearby Tesla recorded the entire incident, showing that he was chased and violently attacked in the street, a public place. The video clearly backs up his side of the story, and we’re hopeful it will play a key role in clearing his name legally.

However, the legal fees for proving his innocence are mounting. Xavier is a good, kind person who doesn’t deserve to be in this situation, but he is far too humble to ask for help. So,as his friend I am stepping in to ask for you to consider donating to help him cover legal costs, medical expenses, and any other fees he may face during this incredibly difficult time. Every contribution will go directly to supporting him and helping him get the justice he deserves.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for any support, whether financial or simply sharing this campaign with others. Your help can make all the difference in helping Xavier get through this nightmare.

Sincerely,

Ruben Pacheco