Farmington Valley Resident Organizes Fundraiser for the Day Family

After the murder of her roommate's sister last week, Laura LaPlante wanted to help.

LaPlante has known Jim Day for about eight years now. Tragically his sister Beth, a 2006 Canton High School graduate, was killed in Simsbury on Sept. 19. Officials say Beth's boyfriend Michael Wawrzyniak, 25, shot and killed her before turning the gun on himself.

The incident has sent shock waves through two communities. On Monday, Day's family has shared many memories with Patch in this story.

Like many, fellow graduate Shana Morales was shocked at the news and sent her best to the family. She remembers Day as quiet and friendly. 

"I know we're all shocked by this incident and we feel for her family, friends and son," Morales said. 

While LaPlante said she doesn’t know the rest of the family that well, she does know that in additional to emotional support, they could also use financial assistance as they hope to gain permanent custody of Beth’s 14-month-old son Dominik.

“It’s going to be tough for them,” she said. “They need all the help they can get right now."

The Day Family Benefit takes place on Saturday, Sept. 29, at Lazy Gate Studios, 497 Cherry Brook Road in Canton, starting at 1 p.m.

LaPlante said she is still working on details for the fundraiser but it will include refreshments and live music. In fact anyone interested in donating items can contact LaPlante at laplante.laura.lee@gmail.com.

LaPlante is also hoping to set up an online account to which people can donate as well.

She also called Collinsville Savings Society and discovered that someone had already set up an account for the family. Donations can be sent to: 

• Funds for Dominik
• c/o Collinsville Savings Society
• PO Box 350
• Canton, CT 06019