Help Slain San Bernardino Boy's Family: GoFundMe Account Raising Funds For Victim's Funeral

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Donations were pouring in on Tuesday for the family of an 8-year-old special needs boy who was gunned down in his classroom this week. Jonathan Martinez was killed along with his teacher Karen Smith during an apparent murder-suicide in San Bernardino in which Smith's estranged husband is accused, according to police.

"By all accounts, Jonathan Martinez was a happy child who was born with Williams Syndrome, a genetic condition present at birth and characterized by cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and learning disabilities," according to a statement by the San Bernardino City Unified School District. "These often occur side by side with striking verbal abilities, highly social personalities and an affinity for music."

"An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people in the United States have Williams Syndrome. It is known to occur equally in both males and females and in every culture."

"Unlike disorders that can make connecting with children difficult, children with Williams Syndrome tend to be social, friendly and endearing. Parents often say the joy and perspective a child with this syndrome brings into their lives had been unimaginable."

Jonathan's cousin set up a GoFundMe page to help out the family in this time of great sadness.

"I'm trying to help my cousins raise money for funeral expenses & meals to help provide for her family in this time of need," Brianna Lopez said. "My whole family would greatly appreciate any forth coming donations, the love and support in this time of need. May god bless you all."

Lopez's plea for help has been widely received, as by Tuesday afternoon more than $53,700 in donations had been made. The goal was $10,000.

"We honestly can't thank everyone enough," Lopez said in a GoFundMe update. "We appreciate everyone's sweet words, and we are very speechless. Thank you coming together. We will keep everyone updated on any further news. My family truly truly appreciates everything from the bottom of our hearts."

Click here if you'd like to donate, too.

SEE ALSO:

Community Mourns Loss Of Boy, Teacher In San Bernardino School Shooting

Image via GoFundMe