One person is dead, and one is in jail today on charges of murder.
David Turner, 57, is facing one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
He drove into a small group of people, who were reportedly helping to feed those in need, near the Nevada Cares Campus, according to Reno police. Two were injured and are in stable condition.
“The male driver made statements to officers that this incident was intentional,” Lt. Anthony Elges said. “The individual victims were both volunteers and those seeking services. The suspect didn’t target either as it relates to why they were in the area…”
The investigation is ongoing and the name of the victim will not be released until next-of-kin are notified.
Update: April 5
The deceased was identified as Michelle Jardine, 55, who was experiencing homelessness in the Reno area.
Jardine was pronounced dead a local hospital. The manner of death was homicide with the cause of death being multiple blunt force injuries.
A GoFundMe has be set up for the victims. At the time of publication, more than $43,000 has been raised. Visit the fundraising campaign here: https://gofund.me/f9c50373
From the campaign:
On Monday, April 3, 2023, Diamond and Clarissa Roman were doing what they do best – giving back to our community through a food for the homeless program, which they started, cook for, manage, and run with their family and friends. As the team of community volunteers were wrapping up the evening, Diamond and Clarissa were assisting a woman as she was choosing what items she could use from the clothing donation Diamond brought along with the meal that night. At that time, a man suddenly and inexplicably drove his car through the area where the women were standing, hitting Diamond, Clarissa, and the other woman. All three ladies were transported to the hospital where Diamond and Clarissa were listed in critical condition upon assessment by emergency medical staff. Sadly, the other woman succumbed to her injuries.
Diamond arrived in the emergency room with a broken back. Clarissa’s condition upon arrival at the ER was significant. She had a broken clavicle, broken ankle, broken ribs, collapsed lung, and a brain bleed. While we cannot make sense of what happened, we can surely surround and support this family as they begin the process of healing, recovering, and trying to return to a normal life that will surely include a great deal of physical and mental anguish resulting from this random act of violence.
Beyond their service to the homeless, these ladies are habitual givers in our community. Their service extends far beyond their efforts to feed those most in need. They organize an annual angel tree during the holidays, to provide for area children who are less fortunate. And Clarissa has been an active member of Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) of N. Nevada since November of 2018. We can’t think of a family more deserving of our love and support.
In true giving form, the Roman family has agreed to this fundraiser on the premise they will provide some burial assistance to the family of the woman who was killed in this tragedy. Further, any monies not needed for this family’s medical and emotional care will be donated back to our community through a program of their choosing. Please help us to ensure this incredible family does not have to suffer with the financial burdens brought upon them by this senseless tragedy.
