GoFundMe for shooting victim and Mississauga father of 2 exceeds goal

The community is supporting the family of a Mississauga father of two who was fatally shot last week.

Bryan Lara-Alvarez, 29, was killed in what police believe was a “targeted incident” just after 7:30 p.m. on March 20 in the area of Dream Crest Road and Fallingbrook Drive, near Rick Hansen Secondary School in Mississauga.

Lara-Alvarez was reportedly sitting alone in his parked car on a neighbourhood street just steps away from his family’s home.

His family and friends are mourning the loss.

Lara-Alvarez left behind his mother, father, sister and two children, a niece and Goddaughter, and many family members and friends, according to an online obituary.

“Bryan was a great soul,” the obituary notes. “He would light up the room with his smile and contagious laugh. A very caring and affectionate man who wore his heart on his sleeve and left a positive impact on many of those with whom he interacted with.”

And the community is supporting the family. Nearly 300 people have donated to a GoFundMe for Lara-Alvarez’s family — more than $50,000 has been raised.

His sister Kathryn Lara organized the fundraiser to cover funeral costs. Any funds remaining will support his two children who are eight and 11 years old, she writes.

“Bryan was taken from us too soon,” Lara writes in the GoFundMe. “A victim of senseless violence has left the family shook at its core.”

People are remembering Lara-Alvarez as a kind man who was full of joy and always smiling.

“Bryan had a laugh that was one of a kind and million dollar smile, we will miss him dearly and will never forget him,” wrote one donor.

As of March 31, no suspects had been arrested in connection with the murder.

This week Peel Regional Police released a video showing a vehicle speeding away from the murder scene. Police say they are looking for a grey, four-door newer model SUV.