ABOUT WYLAND
Like our friend Pierce, Wyland Thomas Gomes was tragically murdered by his father.
He was the firstborn grandchild and was immediately the star of the entire family. As Wyland grew, it became apparent that he was an old soul. He could participate easily in conversations with adults and had a quick wit and a brilliant sense of humor. Most often, he would wait until just the right moment to crack a joke that would fill a room.
Wyland was the light of his mother's eyes. Christy wanted him to have the best life she could provide, and made sure that he had experiences he would always remember. He loved playing video games, hanging out with friends, and spending time with the adults who loved him most. Wyland had an infectious smile, a sharp mind, understood the value of money, and was destined to do great things. His potential was limitless.
It is a tragedy that his life was selfishly stolen from him on March 2, 2020. We will forever mourn the loss of our little buddy and the kid who always knew how to put a smile on our faces.
Christy loved taking Wyland on weekend getaways along the California coast. They played on the beach, explored tide pools, and roasted marshmallows around the campfire, but most of all, they spent quality time together. Without him, she is heartbroken, missing the biggest piece of her heart.
After Wyland’s murder, Christy knew she wanted to keep his memory alive through advocacy, but she wasn’t sure how. Then she found a friend in Lesley, and in 2024 she was honored to be invited to join the team at Pierce’s Pledge.
As Director of Operations, Christy is fulfilling her dream of advocating for children, in memory of Wyland and Pierce.
Wyland’s Law AB 1363
Wyland’s Law (AB 1363), signed into law in California on October 10, 2025, was inspired by the life of Christy Camara’s son, Wyland, who was killed by his father in 2020. Although a restraining order prohibited his father from possessing firearms, failures in the system left critical gaps in protection.
We advocated for Wyland’s Law to improve transparency and accountability in how restraining orders are reported to the California Department of Justice. The law also authorizes a system, subject to state funding, that would allow protected individuals to check whether their order was received, served, and whether the restrained person attempted to acquire a firearm illegally.
Wyland’s Law is more than legislation. It is a commitment to turn Wyland’s story into meaningful change and help protect other families from preventable tragedies.
Wyland’s Birthday Celebration 2024
Wyland’s Annual Birthday Celebration
Wyland was born August 26, 2009. He was tragically taken at the age of 10.
Remembering Wyland is so important to his mom, his family, and his friends of Hanford. He only celebrated 10 birthdays, but now the community continues to celebrate Wyland each year.
In honor of Wyland, children can enjoy FREE train rides, pony rides, carousel rides and snow cones! To celebrate his birthday, his family, along with the sponsors, are giving the community the opportunity to enjoy a fun evening out with the kids. Live music too!
This event takes place each August, in Wyland’s hometown of Hanford, California.
For more details, visit wylandsmom.com.