Friends say Jeff McDonald was a self employed pedi-cab driver, and since he was injured in a collision last month, he hasn't been able to work. Now his friends are throwing that benefit concert at Audie's Olympic Tavern to help McDonald pay his medical bills.
Laura Splotch is setting up items for a silent auction and gift giveaway for people at Jeff McDonald's benefit concert. Many of the items were hand made or donated by artists and bands from Fresno's Tower District. Money raised Sunday evening will go to McDonald and passenger.
"It's been really tough, you know. We put together this benefit so they can help pay their medical bills and stuff," said Laura Splotch of Fresno. Hundreds are expected to show up to watch six local bands play inside this bar.
"Whatever we can do to make money for my friends -- for our friends. Jeff's an icon in the neighborhood," said Splotch. Jeff McDonald says last month he was driving his pedi-cab in the Tower District when he got into a confrontation with a motorist. McDonald says Juan Estrada Junior is that motorist.
Estrada appeared for a preliminary hearing Friday where a judge ruled there is enough evidence for Estrada to be go to trial. He's being charged with four counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
McDonald had three passengers in his pedi-cab when he says Estrada backed into them several times. And since McDonald's injuries keep him from working, friends hope enough people fill this bar as a fun way to offer support.
There is a $10 cover charge to get into the concert, and the event will go on until about 11:30 Sunday night.
