Fundraisers Rake In $83K for Families of Seal Beach Salon Massacre Victims
Numerous fundraisers have been created to raise money for the families of victims killed and injured in the Seal Beach salon shooting. The massacre took place last Wednesday, October 12, and claimed the lives of eight people. One victim survived her injuries and was recently released from the hospital.
At least $83,000 in funds has been raised in the days following the incident. The Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the city and Watson & Associates - owners of the salon's building - is coordinating the donations and distribution of funds. Chamber President Nat Ferguson said the trio has created a trust, which is run by five trustees, that will work as a clearinghouse.
Raised monies will be divvied out to the families of those who died, the sole survivor plus the salon's hairstylists. Traumatized and unemployed, they could surely use assistance. "The economy is tough and their business is closed down," said Marc Persico, the city's development services director, reports The OC Register.
City and chamber officials urge potential donators to contribute to the trust via the Seal Beach Victims' Fund. The city's website offers information on donating, and donations can be made at Bank of America on Main Street, the chamber's office at 201 Eighth Street or via the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce website. Additionally, family members of salon owner Randy Fannin, who died in the shooting, set up the Salon Meritage Memorial Fund. Donations made via the website will go directly to the trust.
Over the weekend, customers at a local Pavilions on PCH and at the Los Alamitos Vons donated a total of $58,551. A community benefit barbecue hosted by Mother's Tavern in Sunset Beach yielded $10,300 in donations. Blend Hair Salon in Los Alamitos raised $3,800 on Sunday for the victims. Fannin's daughter works at Murrieta Day Spa and Hair Studio, which raised $8,800 on Monday for the fund. Another fundraiser in the works is at The Studio Salon in Anaheim Hills.
City officials are currently planning a memorial to honor the victims. Though a date has not been set, the event should take place before the end of October. Officials are waiting until all families have held their funerals and memorials.
