A Grossmont High School alumnus pursuing a graduate degree in clinical psychology is being remembered across East County after he was killed in a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 8.

Jonathan Tyson Nevels, 28, died early Saturday, May 2, after a crash on the freeway, according to East County Magazine. Family members told the publication he had been driving home from a late-night study session when his car struck an EDCO trash truck that had broken down in the roadway.

Nevels graduated from Grossmont High in 2015 and later attended Sonoma State University. East County Magazine reported that he was pursuing a graduate degree at Grand Canyon University and had worked in behavioral health, including roles connected to trauma-informed care.

His family described him as deeply compassionate, especially toward people experiencing homelessness. His mother, Janine Lawrence, told East County Magazine that he collected jackets, blankets and other supplies for people in need and often spent time listening to their stories.

A celebration of life and funeral are scheduled for Saturday, May 23, at Glen Abbey, with viewing from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and a funeral service from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. East County residents who knew Nevels or followed the I-8 crash investigation can read the full remembrance at East County Magazine.