Long Beach Plumber Loses Work Truck Amid Wife's Cancer Battle

A Long Beach man, already facing immense personal challenges, is now seeking community support after his work truck was stolen. Richard Byward, who has been caring for his wife of nearly 40 years as she battles Stage 4 lung cancer, had his 2006 Chevy 2500 truck taken from a Home Depot parking lot near the 405 Freeway and Atlantic Avenue in Signal Hill. The truck, which bears the license plate 50607B2 and business logos for Richard Byward Plumbing, contained valuable tools essential for his work as a plumber.

Byward described the theft as devastating, stating, "They literally took just about everything from me." The loss is particularly cruel given his wife's recent health decline, which has left her unable to walk due to the cancer metastasizing throughout her body. Byward's children have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help replace the stolen equipment, noting that the truck was more than just a vehicle, it was his means of providing for his family during an already difficult time.

As of Sunday night, the GoFundMe had raised over $3,000 toward a $25,000 goal. The fundraiser aims to help Byward restart his work, as the stolen tools and equipment were crucial for his livelihood. The family expressed gratitude for the community's support, emphasizing that Byward cannot afford to stop working while caring for his wife.

Authorities are asked to be contacted if anyone spots the stolen truck.