A sister’s mission: Richard’s Run raises awareness of domestic violence homicide
A virtual run honoring a child killed in a domestic violence case decades ago is raising awareness about the lasting impact of domestic violence homicide.
Richard’s Run, a virtual event created to honor victims and educate the community, was organized by Rachel Wesp after her younger brother’s death.
“As a little girl, I remember my mom would get beaten often. Never did she imagine he would shift his anger towards my little brother,” she said.
In 1986, Wesp’s younger brother, Richard, was killed by her mother’s live-in boyfriend. He later died of organ failure while alone in his bed.
“Richard’s body was put into a trash bag and hidden under the railroad tracks and found hours later by a search party after my dad reported him missing,” she said.
Wesp said creating Richard’s Run honors his life and ensures his story is not forgotten.
The event is supported by the Placer County District Attorney Office’s Empowerment and Resilience Project, which focuses on honoring victims of crime, raising awareness and strengthening connections between victims, survivors and the community.
Wesp said raising awareness about domestic violence homicide is both painful and purposeful.
“It means speaking about something that once felt too heavy to name, but doing so in a way that helps others feel less alone,” she said. “Richard’s Run represents hope — hope that through remembrance, education, and community connection, we can create safer futures and ensure that those who can no longer speak are still remembered.”
Wesp said the event has grown from a personal tribute into a broader community effort.
“What began as a deeply personal tribute has grown into a meaningful community event focused on remembrance, education, and awareness — especially around domestic violence homicide and the often-unseen ripple effects left behind,” she said. “Domestic violence homicide doesn’t just take a life — it leaves families, siblings, and communities carrying grief and trauma that can last for generations.”
Participants can register free online at placer.ca.gov/RichardsRun from April 21 to April 28.
Those who register can print their own Richard’s Run bib and write who or what they are running for. Participants can run or walk anywhere.
Runners are encouraged to share their miles or steps online using the hashtag #RichardsRun and tag the Placer County District Attorney’s Office.
