Dr. Harouni’s family also announces plans to start charity,  Hearts Over Hate

By Miriam Raftery

March 9, 2024 (El Cajon) – Yareli Carrillo, mother of a 9-month-old baby, was one of two people injured when a gunman opened fire on Feb. 29 at the Smile Plus Dentistry & Orthodontics clinic in El Cajon where she works as an administrative assistant.  The shooter, a former patient, also killed Dr. Benjamin Harouni.

The young mother was shot five times in the legs, and has been hospitalized in stable condition.  Yarelli Carillo’s family has started a fundraiser on GoFundMe.  Organizer Edgar Hernandez says. Your generous contributions will directly support Yareli as she rebuilds her life, covering medical expenses, ongoing treatment, and ensuring the well-being of her baby boy in a stable and nurturing environment. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope and healing to Yareli and her family.”

Jake Harouni has set up a separate fundraiser to assist the family of his brother, Dr.. Benjamin Harouni. “We're organizing a charity - Hearts Over Hate - to support families affected by violent crimes, offering them much-needed counseling and support, particularly for those who lack the resources to access these services,” Jake Harouni writes.

He adds, ”Our enduring vision is to foster peace by educating young people and nurturing environments of love and kindness. This proactive approach aims to prevent such tragedies from recurring.”