Community Corner

Benefit Set for Murder Victims' Families

"We Are Murrieta," a benefit in memory of recent homicide victims Saskia Burke and Sam Vanettes, is planned for Jan. 19.

Spelly's Pub & Grille will host a benefit for the families of two recent Murrieta homicide victims.

The city of Murrieta, the Murrieta Police Department and several area businesses are coming together to sponsor the "We Are Murrieta" event to remember and

Burke was stabbed to death Dec. 20 in her family's Milkwood Lane home, allegedly by William Gary Simpson Jr., who used to live at the home.

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To read about what happened, .

Vanettes was killed Dec. 21 at Spelly's Pub & Grille, when off-duty Riverside County sheriff's deputy Dayle William Long, 42, allegedly shot him. To read about what happened,.

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The homicides were the first reported in the city since January 2010. Both suspects remain in custody and have been charged with the crimes.

The event will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 19 at Spelly's Pub & Grille, 40675 Murrieta Hot Springs Road.

There is no cover charge. The evening will feature live music, along with raffle prizes to benefit Vanettes' and Burke's families, according to Kimberly Davidson, business development manager for the city of Murrieta. 

"Spelly’s will be donating a portion of their proceeds to the victims’ families or to a fund/charity of their choice," Davidson said in an email.

"There will also be donation cups for the families in case anyone feels so moved."

To donate prizes for the raffle, contact Davidson at 951-461-6003 or kdavidson@murrieta.org.


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