A fundraiser will be held Saturday for a San Diego Police Department detective who lost part of his leg in a motorcycle accident in Alpine last month.
CrossFit RSD will host the “Chappie Challenge” at Skyline Church located at 11330 Campo Rd. in La Mesa to benefit Detective James “Chappie” Hunter, a 19-year veteran of the SDPD who works on the Human Trafficking Task Force.
On Jun. 16, Hunter’s motorcycle collided with a white sedan in the 2100 block of Alpine Boulevard while he was off duty.
The detective was transported to a local hospital via helicopter, and had to have his left leg amputated below the knee. Officials said Hunter was also treated for a broken arm and internal injuries.
He was released from the hospital on Jun. 20, and has been recovering ever since.
In an interview last month just after Hunter’s accident, SDPD Sex Crimes Unit Lt. Chuck Kaye described Hunter as a “big CrossFit guy” who is in excellent shape.
Now, Hunter’s CrossFit friends are hosting a fundraiser in support of the injured detective.
"Chappie is an avid CrossFitter, and had recently obtained his CrossFit Level 1 Trainer Certification. He is passionate about fitness. He has a remarkably positive attitude and says he will train and compete again. We are going to support him in making that happen," said Mike Spears, owner of CrossFit RSD.
In order to continue being active and practicing CrossFit, Hunter will need a specialized prosthetic leg. All proceeds raised at Saturday’s fundraiser will go toward purchasing the necessary prosthetic for Hunter.
The “Chappie Challenge” runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organizers expect more than 500 participants and spectators.
Registration costs $30 per person, or $100 for a team of four. To register, click here.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Police Officer’s Association (SDPOA) has established a fund to help Hunter, his wife and young son. Checks should be made payable to SDPOA with “Detective Chappie Hunter” in the memo line.
They can be sent to:
San Diego Police Officers Association
Widows and Orphans Fund
8388 Vickers Street
San Diego, CA 92111
Donations may also be made by contacting the SDPOA office at (858) 573-1199.
The SDPOA’s Widows and Orphans Fund will also host “Bowling for Chappie,” a bowling fundraiser at Viejas Bowl on Willows Road Monday, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., to benefit Hunter.
Hunter is expected to partake in the bowling fundraiser, as well as active and retired SDPD officers. Proceeds will go to aid Hunter’s recovery.
