Fundraiser held for family of Cracker Barrel shooting victims

COLUMBIA STATION, Ohio - Five weeks to the day after Kayla Allen was shot by her father Kevin Allen inside a Brooklyn Cracker Barrel Restaurant, those touched by the young girl's struggle for life gathered in a long-planned benefit in her honor in Columbia Station.

Kayla died Tuesday from her injuries. Her mother and sister were killed April 12 in the shooting. Kevin Allen was shot and killed by police as he exited the restaurant.

The fundraiser at Barabarino's Restaurant featured a number of raffle items and music. Organizers said they never had any doubt about whether to go on with the event.

"It's adapted and we're still here for the family, all the survivors, those out of state, those in state because that's what this community is about," said Amy Bellinger.

Funeral arrangements for 10-year-old Kayla, have been set for Monday.

A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on May 21 at Grace Christian & Missionary Alliance Church on Pearl Road in Middleburg Heights. The family said Kayla will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be given to:

Hospice of the Western Reserve
c/o Pediatric Services
300 E. 185th St.
Cleveland, Ohio 44119