Virtual Vigil Planned For Danville Dr. Ari Gershman, Fatally Shot

DANVILLE, CA — A virtual lawn luminary vigil will be held Monday night in honor of Danville Dr. Ari Gershman, who was fatally shot by a stranger while off-roading with his son in rural Sierra County.

His son escaped into the forest and was later found uninjured. Two others were shot in the attack and survived.

Anyone wishing to honor Gershman's life may decorate a bag with notes or photos addressed to Gershman family members Ari, Paige, Evan, Jack and Maci, according to a flyer being circulated. The bags will later be filled with battery-powered candles and placed on the Gershman's lawn for a Monday night memorial. There will not be an in-person gathering, but photos will be circulated after the event.

Bags can be picked up in the coming days from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 80 Princeton Court, Danville, 144 Alta Vista Way, Danville and California All Stars at 4935 Southfront Road, Unit C, Livermore, organizers said. Bags may be taken home for decoration or can be completed on-site.

The Sierra County community has also been invited to participate, said Autumn Long-McGie, executive assistant to the Sierra County Sheriff, on Facebook.

A GoFundMe online fundraiser established to help cover funeral costs and cancer treatments for Gershman's wife had raised $440,000 as of Thursday morning. Donate here.

Read more:

• Man To Face Charges In Danville Doctor's Slaying, Sheriff Says
• Danville Mourns Doctor Shot While Off-Roading With Son

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.