A community fundraiser held in front of the Save Mart on J. Street in Marysville saw hundreds gather on Sunday to support the families of Douglas L. Eid, the assistant manager killed earlier this month, and customer Robert Balderaz, who was seriously injured. The Yuba County District Attorney’s Office stated Eid died in a violent scuffle with a homeless man on October 11. Balderaz sustained severe stab wounds to his right arm while attempting to intervene and stop Eid’s alleged attacker.
The event, named the Marysville Strong Community Fundraiser, aimed to collect donations for both victims' families. Samuel E. Hartbower, 33, has been charged with Eid’s murder and Balderaz’s assault. Hartbower entered a plea of not guilty to Eid’s killing and other related felonies and is currently held without bail in the Yuba County Jail. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 4.
Terry Eid, Douglas Eid’s wife of 25 years, shared memories of her late husband. The couple resided in Clearlake, and she recalled his strong sense of humor and his inclusive nature, considering everyone a friend. Douglas Eid was known for his protective instincts towards customers and staff, often walking them to their cars after dark. She stated that he consistently strived for personal improvement each day. Douglas Eid was 64 at the time of his death and had been involved in the grocery industry since he was 12 years old, having grown up in Clear Lake.
Several community members who volunteered at the fundraiser identified themselves as long-time Save Mart customers who valued their interactions with Eid. David Sperbeck, a retired teacher and event volunteer, expressed his profound sadness, describing Eid as an excellent human being and lamenting the tragedy. Sperbeck noted Eid’s dedication to his work, customers, and staff, and his contentment despite a daily 75-mile commute from Clearlake.
Glenda Almquist, another volunteer and loyal customer for over a decade, spoke of Eid’s genuine and great-spirited personality, always ready to assist. Jennifer Herrera, also an event volunteer, recounted her shock and devastation upon learning of Eid’s death, emphasizing how much he was loved and the profound loss his passing represents. She expressed hope that Eid's family would recognize the community's affection for him.
The 4G Foundation, a Mid-Valley nonprofit focused on helping those in need, according to its mission statement, sponsored the fundraiser. Local businesses, including Rolling Stone Pizza Company, the Yuba-Sutter Training Zone, Institute of Rock, and SayLove Yuba-Sutter, were featured at the event. The gathering was organized by Slice of Respect, a community support venture founded by Jim King, owner of Rolling Stone Pizza. King described the event as an embodiment of community spirit.
Douglas Eid will be laid to rest in his hometown of Clearlake, according to Terry Eid, who fondly remembered him telling her how much he loved her every day, calling him “the best husband.” Samuel E. Hartbower’s legal proceedings will continue with his next court date on November 4.
