Ventura County: Hundreds of motorcyclists gather in Simi Valley for the Ride for the Blue event honoring the late Sheriff Sgt. Ron Helus

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (KABC) — Motorcyclists in Ventura County on Saturday honored the late Sergeant Ron Helus, who saved countless lives in the Borderline Bar and Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks nearly four years ago.

Hundreds of motorcyclists gathered at Simi Valley City Hall for the annual Ride for the Blue event.

The event honors the late Sergeant of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department. This year, organizers took in other first responders in the wake of the pandemic.

“So now we’re going to honor firefighters, police officers, doctors, nurses, EMTs and everyone who serves and protects us in Ventura County,” said John Short, founder of the Sgt. Ron Helus Ride for the blue event.

Helus was killed in 2018 after a firefight at the Borderline Bar and Grill restaurant that killed 11 others. His widow thanked those present for coming.

“He would have been honored to have such a wonderful event named in his honor,” said Sgt. Helus’ widow, Karen Helus. “On behalf of Ron and I, thank you for being here today.”

Motorcyclists will stop at nine different police stations throughout Ventura County, including the Sheriff’s Department, to show their appreciation.

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“The impact he had in saving lives at Borderline is just perfect that it was named after him,” said Bill Ayub, Ventura County Sheriff. “We are truly grateful that he and his family are receiving recognition.”

All proceeds from the ride will go to 911 At Ease International, a non-profit organization that provides confidential therapy to first responders and their families at no cost.

“Whenever we can come out and support our local firefighters and sheriffs and everyone who serves first responders, we want to be out here,” said Keni Dawkins, one of the drivers on Saturday.

“This is a great cause and the turnout is amazing. We need more respect for the police. More respect for the first responders,” said Tom McCarthy, another rider who attended Saturday’s event. “They are risking their lives for us.”

Riders go the extra mile to support Sgt. Ron Helus’ spirit of sacrifice to help others in need.