The mass shooting in Highland Park during a July 4th parade claimed the lives of two parents of a two-year-old. Here’s more on the horrifying incident.
Toddler orphaned after Highland Park shooting
The Highland Park mass shooting claimed the lives of seven people. Among the victims were 37-year-old Kevin McCarthy and 35-year-old Irina McCarthy. Their 2-year-old boy, The kid was escorted to safety by some parade participants after getting separated from his parents during the commotion. As per the officials, the cops then turned him over to his grandparents.
Before reuniting with his family, a picture of Aiden strolling around the shooting scene became viral on social media. As per reports, the toddler looked shocked and told his grandparents “mommy and daddy are arriving soon”. According to his grandfather, the toddler lived because his father covered him with his body.
Fundraiser for Aiden
A fundraiser has been established to support him and his grandparents. According to a GoFundMe page set up for Aiden, 41,000 people have donated over $2.2 million so far. (At the time of publishing)
“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,” stated the GoFundMe page.
“On behalf of his family, and with their permission, I am establishing this fundraiser to support him and the caregivers who will be tasked with raising, caring for, and supporting Aiden as he and his support system embark on this unexpected journey,” added Irina Colon, the friend.