Family members, friends and strangers all gathered at the Electric company in Utica Saturday to raise money for the family of Lauren Belius, the six year old girl who police say was murdered in her home in July. All of the money raised from the event will go into a trust fund set up for Lauren's two siblings, Erica and Nolan.
One of the benefits organizers, Kristy Clifford, says there are a lot of mixed emotions for the family today.
"It's kind of a bittersweet day for them," Clifford says. "They're happy that all these people are here and we're all together and smiling and trying to be happy. It's unfortunate the reason that we're here, but it's all about supporting them and that's why everybody's here today."
Belius's accused killer, David Trebilcock, was arraigned in Oneida County Court Friday, and is due in court again in October.
If you would like to send a donation to the Belius family, you can mail them to:
John Belius Jr.
9211 State Route 26
Lee Center, NY 13363
