Fundraising efforts raise over $35,000 for families of 3-year-old boys killed in crash
EAGLE MOUNTAIN, Utah (KUTV) — Fundraising efforts in Eagle Mountain have raised thousands of dollars for the families of 3-year-olds Hunter Jackson and Odin Ratliff.
The boys were tragically killed on May 2 when an out-of-control driver struck them while they played in the sand with their toy trucks. Weeks later, the devastated community is choosing to continually rally behind their families.
Two separate fundraisers saw hundreds of supporters on Saturday. Proceeds from both events went to the boys’ families.
One fundraiser involved Krispy Kreme doughnuts, where dozens were sold for $10 apiece. The effort ultimately helped raise approximately $25,000.
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“We just want to do something to help support the families and bring the community together,” said Ryan Donithorn, Eagle Mountain resident and district manager with the doughnut company.
He said community members bought several dozen per family or individual.
The team serving the treats was made up of volunteers who told 2News that many generously gave more beyond their doughnut purchases.
Earlier in the day, the Smokin’ Rose Ranch, located about 10 miles from the park, also hosted a "Farm Day" fundraising event filled with horse riding, a petting zoo, raffles and more.
Brittney Bird helped organize Farm Day.
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“As a community, we mourn together when something tragic like this happens,” she said.
Bird said the boys were loved, and this is the community's way of showing their support to their families.
“There's a lot of people that love and care about them, and those little boys will never be forgotten,” she said.
Smokin’ Rose Ranch raised nearly $11,000 to help the boys’ families. Krispy Kreme said they had hundreds turn out to purchase doughnuts with all proceeds also going to the families.
Community members said they don’t see the support coming to an end.
"It’s been going on for a few weeks now and I don’t see it ever slowing down,” shared Eagle Mountain resident Martie Cummins, who brought her children out to get doughnuts at the park. “We’re so family-oriented. We love each other. We love all our kids and our families, and it just brings everyone together.”
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