LA JOLLA, Calif. — The parents of David DeMott have launched a GoFundMe campaign to honor their son’s memory after his sudden and heartbreaking death from cardiac arrest. The La Jolla community has responded with an outpouring of support as family and friends mourn the unexpected loss of a young life cut tragically short.
According to the fundraiser, David suffered a rare and immediate cardiac event while walking home from school just outside the campus grounds. His family shared that the medical emergency happened without warning, leaving loved ones devastated. The campaign was officially launched on February 22, 2026, as a way to channel their grief into something meaningful and lasting.
The fundraiser, titled “The David DeMott Memorial Fund,” aims to establish what will eventually become The David DeMott Foundation. His parents say the goal is to transform unimaginable loss into a life-giving mission that will positively impact others in David’s name. They described the effort as a way to ensure his legacy continues to shine in the community he loved.
In a message shared on the campaign page, the family explained that all funds raised will be placed in a dedicated account and carefully stewarded as they determine the foundation’s specific mission. They emphasized their commitment to using the contributions thoughtfully and responsibly as they shape the vision for the organization.
As of Tuesday, the fundraiser had raised more than $170,000, reflecting the deep connection many in La Jolla felt toward David and his family. Friends, neighbors, and supporters have shared messages of sympathy, prayers, and encouragement, offering comfort during an incredibly difficult time. The strong financial response underscores the community’s desire to stand beside the family in their grief.
While the pain of David’s sudden passing remains fresh, his parents hope the memorial fund will serve as a beacon of hope in the years to come. Through generosity and shared remembrance, the DeMott family seeks to honor David’s life in a way that brings light out of darkness and ensures his memory endures beyond the tragedy.