Woman seeks to continue IVF following her husband’s death in a hit-and-run while he was at work.

A tragic incident unfolded in Riverside, California, on July 27, when Peter Mullis, a dedicated radiologic technologist, was fatally struck by a vehicle during a police pursuit. The event occurred outside the Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center, where Mullis was employed and taking a routine walk during his lunch break. According to law enforcement officials, the pursuit stemmed from a traffic stop due to vehicle code violations. The SUV fled the scene shortly after officers attempted to engage.

Detective Steven Espinosa of the Riverside police reported that despite immediate attempts to provide life-saving measures after the collision, Mullis was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries later. The driver of the SUV, identified as 62-year-old Gene Amos Cunningham, was arrested the following day and is currently held without bail on charges of murder and felony hit-and-run resulting in death. It was revealed that Cunningham had existing felony warrants and was on parole for a previous assault conviction.

At the time of Mullis’s death, he and his wife, Layla, were in the midst of a second round of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, aiming to start a family. Layla expressed uncertainty about continuing the IVF process without her husband’s insurance support, which had been instrumental in covering their treatments. Despite her grief, she is determined to pursue their dream of having a child, stating her hope of having a piece of Peter with her in their future.

In response to the overwhelming circumstances, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist Layla with forthcoming expenses related to the IVF process, as well as covering funeral costs and living expenses. The campaign has already raised over ,000, illustrating the community’s support in this challenging time.

The couple’s bond was evident to those who knew them. Introducing each other to their families shortly after meeting in 2016, they quickly became inseparable. Their expedited courtship culminated in marriage five months later. Elaborate plans for a larger wedding were shelved due to the COVID-19 pandemic, yet they celebrated their union each year at the Renaissance Faire, donning costumes that represented beloved characters.

Mullis was deeply committed to his family, connecting with his nieces and nephews, affectionately known as “Uncle Popo.” He was instrumental in providing joy and creating lasting memories with them. As friends and family continue to mourn his untimely passing, Layla Mullis remains resolute about honoring her husband’s legacy while navigating the challenges ahead.

This incident highlights the tragic intersection of law enforcement pursuits and pedestrian safety, making clear the profound impact such events can have on families and communities alike.