Camden Co. Man Killed In Crash Remembered As 'Backbone' Of His Family

LINDENWOLD, NJ — A Camden County man killed in a crash last week was the "backbone" of his family, according to an online fundraiser supporting Walter Lopez-Arévalo's loved ones.

Lopez-Arévalo, 39, of Lindenwold, sustained fatal injuries Thursday night, when another vehicle crossed the double-yellow line and crashed into his vehicle in Somerdale, authorities said. The driver of the other vehicle was intoxicated, according to the Camden County Prosecutor's Office (CCPO).

• Read more: Intoxicated Blackwood Driver Killed Man, Hurt 4 In Crash: Prosecutor

Four other people in Lopez-Arévalo's vehicle were hospitalized in critical condition, the CCPO said. A GoFundMe page identified them as Lopez-Arévalo's wife and kids.

The fundraiser is supporting expenses brought by the crash and his death.

"Walter was the backbone of his family, working tirelessly to provide for their needs and create a better future for them," the GoFundMe says. "His sudden departure has not only shattered their hearts but also left them facing overwhelming financial burdens, including funeral expenses, mortgage payments, and mounting medical bills."

The GoFundMe has raised about $3,500 toward its $25,000 goal as of this writing.

Gerald Norum, who drove the vehicle that killed Lopez-Arévalo, was arrested at the scene for driving while intoxicated, the CCPO said. He was later charged with second-degree death by auto (one count), third-degree assault by auto (one count) and fourth-degree assault by auto (three counts).

Anyone with information on this case can contact Det. Samuel Funches of the CCPO's Crash Response Investigations Team at 856-397-4000 and Det. Howard Dawson of the Somerdale Police Department at 856-428-6324 ext. 2900. Tips can also be sent to CAMDEN.TIPS.

View the GoFundMe here.