Residents of South Bend, Indiana, have united to support a local driver, Marcellus “Mo” Riles, by providing him with a brand-new vehicle. This heartwarming community effort emerged after Riles’ dilapidated pickup truck gained attention online, highlighting the challenges he faced due to its unreliability.
In response to the viral images of Riles’ truck, local business owner Colin Crowel of Carguys Auto Detailing initiated a GoFundMe campaign on November 30, 2025. His goal was to raise funds to help Riles acquire a safer and more dependable vehicle. The community quickly rallied around the cause, with over 500 donors contributing more than $22,000 within a month. This remarkable response provided Riles with enough funds to purchase a new truck.
The new vehicle, a 2019 Chevy Silverado, was unveiled to Riles on January 10, 2026, at Gates Chevrolet in South Bend. Overwhelmed with emotion, Riles expressed his gratitude, stating, “God blessed me,” as he took in the support from his community. For Crowel, witnessing Riles receive the keys was a profoundly rewarding experience. “I’ve got to do a lot of amazing things,” he remarked. “I think this is the top moment.”
Crowel’s motivation for starting the campaign stemmed from a desire to alleviate some of the burdens Riles faced, particularly given his ongoing health challenges. “We wanted to make sure that we take the load off his shoulders so he can heal and be comfortable,” Crowel explained. The new vehicle will enable Riles to attend medical appointments, go to work, and run errands confidently, knowing that he has a reliable mode of transport.
In addition to the generosity shown by the community, local auto shops have also stepped forward to assist with Riles’ future maintenance needs, ensuring that his new truck remains roadworthy for years to come. Riles expressed heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of support, emphasizing that the initiative was about community and compassion. “It’s not about me — it’s about the efforts of a man who saw a stressful situation for another human being,” he said.
This uplifting story highlights the power of community support and the significant impact it can have on individuals facing difficult circumstances. The collaboration between local businesses and residents has not only provided Riles with a new truck but has also strengthened community bonds in South Bend.
