Eureka man killed in crash was well known business owner

Eureka, Ca., (KIEM) The man who died over the weekend after a truck crashed into his Humboldt Hill home was a longtime Eureka business owner.

On Friday night, 25 year-old Fields Landing resident Ryder Stapp was driving a Ford truck on Humboldt Hill Road when he went off the roadway and crashed into a residence where Robert “Bob” Beland, 64, and his wife Elizabeth Martin, 62, were asleep.

Beland was transported to St. Joseph Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Martin was also transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

Stapp was arrested on suspicion of DUI, hit-and-run, and vehicular manslaughter. He posted bail on Saturday.

Beland was the owner of Humboldt Lock and Safe in Eureka. Neighboring business owners heard about the tragedy and said they are heartbroken.

“Bob was a great neighbor to have,” said Joshua Uutela, General Manager of Poletski’s Appliance Center. “He was always reliable, he was open for business and helping the public, he is going to be really missed… He was honest, he was genuine, well loved by all of his customers, and he’s been here for a long time. I don’t think he’s going to be replaced.”

The Humboldt Lock and Safe answering machine and a note on the door said the business is closed indefinitely. A GoFundMe Page has been established to help the Beland family.  As of Monday evening, over $7,000 has been raised.