Community Mourns Firefighter Killed In Lake Elsinore Motocross Crash

APPLE VALLEY, CA — The family of a fallen firefighter engineer killed Dec. 3 in an off-duty motorcycle crash at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park is receiving support from the brothers and sisters who served alongside him.

A "Fallen Firefighter Family Fund" started on GoFundMe by Jake Salgado of Apple Valley Professional Fire Fighters – IAFF Local 4742 had raised $15,665 as of Friday evening for the family of Jared Shepard who served with the Apple Valley Fire Protection District.

"Jared leaves behind a heartbroken family who adored him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kim, and their two young sons, Lennox and Grayson," the page reads. "This fundraiser is dedicated to supporting the Shepard family during this incredibly challenging time. Our goal is to alleviate the financial burden of funeral expenses and provide the family with the time and space they need to adjust to life without Jared, a loving husband and a doting father."

Officials with the Apple Valley Fire Protection District announced the death late Sunday night via social media: "It is with heavy hearts that the Apple Valley Fire Protection District shares the loss of a member of our family. Engineer Jared Shepard passed away this morning due to injuries sustained in an off-duty motorcycle accident that occurred in Lake Elsinore, California. We ask that you join us in keeping Jared’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers."

Shepard's body was escorted home to the high desert Wednesday from the coroner's office in Perris. A procession of first responders could be seen on northbound 15. The Apple Valley Fire Protection District's office closed for the day and the agency apologized for the inconvenience.

The fire protection district shared the GoFundMe link created by Salgado and thanked the public for its continued support.

"Jared was not just a firefighter; he was a pillar of strength and a source of unwavering support for his family," according to the GoFundMe page. "Since 2017, he selflessly served the community of Apple Valley, putting his life on the line to protect others. But above all, he was fiercely proud of his family and dedicated his life to ensuring their well-being and happiness.

"The loss of Jared Shepard has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family and his co-workers. We ask for your support, no matter how big or small, to help this grieving family find some semblance of peace during this difficult journey."

The Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park is located at 20700 Cereal Street. Shepard was at the park preparing for a local motocross event when he crashed, according to a report from the Victorville Daily Press.