Friends, family members and members of the local riding community are mourning the loss of Donald King, a man many described as loyal, generous and deeply devoted to those around him.

Donald, who was an employee at Dirty South Saloon and known throughout the motorcycle community, died from injuries sustained in a crash on Feb. 28 along Interstate 4. Loved ones say the outpouring of support since the accident has shown just how many lives he touched.

Donald’s daughter, McKenzie King, described her father as a loving parent, grandfather and friend who always found ways to make people smile. He served as a corrections officer for the Florida Department of Corrections and was known for his willingness to help anyone in need.

According to a GoFundMe post, family members from several states rushed to Florida in the days after the crash to be by his side as he fought for his life. Friends and fellow riders also gathered to support the family, sharing memories and prayers.

The Florida Highway Patrol said the crash occurred around 10 p.m. on Feb. 28 on westbound Interstate 4 near mile marker 104 in Seminole County. Investigators say a Nissan Altima driven by a suspected drunk and unlicensed driver struck the rear of Donald’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle while it was stopped along the shoulder.

The impact threw Donald from the bike and caused severe injuries.

Authorities say the driver fled the scene but was later located nearby. The suspect, identified as Edwin Gabriel Amaya Reyes, was initially arrested on charges including DUI causing serious bodily injury, driving without a license and leaving the scene of a crash. It will be upgraded to manslaughter.

Troopers reported the driver’s blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit. Records also show he had previously been cited for driving without a license in prior incidents.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol crash report, the driver has never held a valid driver’s license. Authorities also reported that he was found with a Guatemalan passport at the time of his arrest, and jail records show an immigration detainer was placed on him following the crash.

In the days since Donald’s passing, tributes have poured in from friends, coworkers and fellow riders across the country.

“My best friend, my hero, and the absolute best father I could’ve ever asked for has sadly passed away,” his daughter wrote in an update to supporters. “He was such a supportive, loving and outgoing man with a soul filled with so much light to share with the world.”

A fundraiser created by the family is helping cover medical, travel and related expenses as they navigate the difficult days ahead. Link – https://vist.ly/4ufsc

For those who knew him, Donald will be remembered not only for his service and passion for riding, but for the laughter, kindness and loyalty he shared with everyone around him.