Gabriella Ferlita
Over $2 million has been raised for a two-year-old orphan who lost his parents in the 4th July shooting in Chicago.
The toddler was enjoying the festivities alongside his parents Irina McCarthy, 35, and Kevin McCarthy, 37, on Monday (4 July) when his family were tragically shot and lost their lives in the attack in the town of Highland Park.
Their little boy, Aiden, was separated from his parents during the attack and was reportedly found by the locals alive, but alone and covered in blood.
An image of Aiden was then shared on local social media pages in order to try and reunite the child with other members of his family following the harrowing attack that day.
After coming across the social media posts, an onlooker, Irina Colon, set up a GoFundMe for Aiden with his family’s permission.
Colon wrote on the fundraising site: "In the aftermath of the Highland Park, IL shootings on July 4, the North Shore community rallied to help a boy who we knew nothing about.
"We took him to safety under tragic circumstances, came together to locate his grandparents, and prayed for the safety of his family.
"At two years old, Aiden is left in the unthinkable position; to grow up without his parents.
"Aiden will be cared for by his loving family and he will have a long road ahead to heal, find stability, and ultimately navigate life as an orphan.
"He is surrounded by a community of friends and extended family that will embrace him with love, and any means available to ensure he has everything he needs as he grows."
She explained that the fundraiser was launched in order to help support Aiden and his future caregivers, 'who will be tasked with raising, caring for, and supporting Aiden as he and his support system embark on this unexpected journey'.
Aiden, who has since been reunited with his grandparents, has had over $2 million worth of donations raised, thanks to Colon and her efforts.
Four other victims who were killed in the attack on Monday have been named as Katherine Goldstein, 64, Jacquelyn Sundheim, 63, Stephen Straus, 88, and Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, 78.
The seventh victim’s identity has not yet been revealed.
To donate to the GoFundMe for Aiden, click here.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.