The father of a mixed-race family was shot dead during in a Southern California state park.
As reported by CNN, 35-year-old Tristan Beaudette of Irvine ,California, was shot dead in front his two daughters during a family camping trip.
Authorities at a campsite at Malibu Creek State Park received a report of gunfire at 4:45 a.m. Friday.
Deputies arrived and found Beaudette who “had sustained at least one gunshot wound to his upper torso,” according to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department.
Los Angeles County Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter said he was pronounced dead at the scene ad that an autopsy is pending.
Beaudette’s 2 and 4 year old daughters were inside the tent with him but were not injured. The family had been camping whilst his wife, Erica Wu, prepared for an exam. Beaudette and his family were planning to move to the Bay area after the exam.
Detective Rodney Moore said no motive has been found yet. “There is no suspect information, no suspect vehicle,” he said. “We are not investigating this as a suicide at this point.”
“Homicide detectives are aware there have been other shootings near the location in the past, however there is no evidence that suggests this incident is related to any prior shootings near the location,” the LASD said.
Beaudette, who had a PHD from the University of California at Berkeley, was an associate director at the pharmaceutical company Allergan.
Wu said in statement about her husband, “words cannot express the absolute devastation and sorrow we feel from the loss of someone so dear to our family. You were admired by so many for your devotion to your wife and two daughters. We are all so fortunate to have known you for your short time on Earth. You were taken from us far too early, doing something you loved with the girls you adored.”
Allergan spokesperson Amy Rose said in a statement from the company, “It’s rare that we lose a friend and colleague, especially in an event that was senseless and difficult to understand.”
“Tristan will be remembered as a talented scientist who was admired by all who knew him and a meaningful contributor to our company’s research and development efforts.”
The company’s statement added it is “working closely with Tristan’s wife and family to provide them with the support they need during this very challenging time.”
A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help the family. “They were about to embark on a new chapter in their lives,” reads the page. “And then it was all taken away, by a fatal gun shot in the middle of the night, in front of his two young daughters.”
California State Parks spokesperson Tony Hoffman said campground would remain closed for the next week in the interest of public safety.
“Our hearts go out to the victim and his family during this difficult time,” California State Parks said. “The safety of park visitors is our top priority, and California State Parks is working closely with Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives as they investigate the incident.”
