Household, pals paddle out to recollect 28-year-old dentist shot and killed in El Cajon

ENCINITAS, Calif. (KGTV) — Carrying his brother’s surfboard, Jake Harouni walked towards the sundown at San Elijo State Seashore Saturday afternoon, with pals intently following.

“I’ll at all times cherish these recollections with him on the seaside,” Jake mentioned.

The group of pals gathered to paddle out in honor of Jake’s brother, 28-year-old Benjamin Harouni, who was shot and killed on Feb. 29 whereas working as a dentist in El Cajon.

“There’s nonetheless a gloom in my chest and head,” Jake mentioned. “It is one thing I will have to sit down down and cope with for the remainder of my life.”

Learn extra: Mother and father of dentist killed in El Cajon taking pictures honor son’s legacy

Jake mentioned he felt like his brother was there browsing with pals, whereas members of the family stood on the sand. Jake and Benjamin used to surf collectively at Tourmaline, a reminiscence that introduced laughter even on this darkish time.

“He was simply studying. I am intermediate, so educating a newbie, it was a humorous time,” Jake mentioned. “Now each time I’m going to the seaside, I bear in mind these moments, they usually make me really feel good.”

Police have arrested Mohammed Sabah Abdulkareem, a former disgruntled affected person, accusing him of fatally taking pictures Benjamin and two different workers at Smile Plus Dentistry & Orthodontics.

The El Cajon man pleaded not responsible to homicide and tried homicide expenses on Tuesday.

Associated: Reactions to the dying of dentist from a taking pictures in El Cajon

Because the police investigation continues, Benjamin’s household focuses on mutual help.

“We simply wish to honor Ben in as some ways as attainable. We wish to convey the group collectively, present our love to 1 one other,” Jake mentioned.

The Harouni household initiated a basis in Benjamin’s reminiscence, Hearts Over Hate, with the present purpose to help households of victims in violent crimes.