LONG BEACH — A tragic family incident unfolded Saturday in Long Beach’s Wrigley Heights, where 89-year-old William Porter was killed after being struck by his son’s vehicle, authorities said.
Police responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a “family disturbance” at a home on the 600 block of West Wardlow Boulevard. Officers and neighbors found William Porter pinned beneath a car and attempted to lift it with a floor jack while paramedics provided aid, according to a Long Beach Police Department news release. Despite their efforts, the elderly man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s son, 50-year-old Robert Porter, remained at the location and was later arrested on suspicion of murder. He is being held on $2 million bail. Authorities have not disclosed a motive or the circumstances leading up to the fatal incident.
Crimes involving familial violence are rare but deeply traumatic for communities, highlighting the need for awareness of mental health and domestic conflict support. “It’s a heartbreaking situation for neighbors and family alike,” a local resident said. Law enforcement continues to investigate to determine what led to the fatal confrontation and to provide clarity to the community.