Community members come together to raise money for Kennett man's funeral

Kennett, Mo. -- "At 22, the last thing on your mind is your death and how your funeral will be paid for," said Kathie Davis.

"Unfortunately, that is the reality of the family of Andy Tijerina."

Tijerina died after being shot several times Saturday night in an apparent altercation with Jeremy Corcoran.

Tijerina was the stepson of Lt. Rick Groves of the Kennett Police Department.

"Rick has done so much for this community, it is our time to step up and do something for him," Davis said.

To that end, Davis established a gofundme.com site (http://www.gofundme.com/a47s4g) and an account at Senath State Bank to help with funeral expenses.

"Andy didn't have any kind of insurance. The funeral services are in the $8-to-9,000 range. The family needs help," she said.

She added: "One of Andy's favorite hangouts was Shaker's, and they are going to host a benefit concert Thursday night beginning at 8 p.m. It will be the perfect end to the day he is laid to rest."

Local band Jaded will be the feature act and has donated its time free of charge for the event.

Shaker's manager Dawn Graves Jones said admission will be $15, with all proceeds going toward funeral costs.

"We will also have donation jars throughout the restaurant and bar area for those who want to donate a little more," she said.

Holly Coleman of Women for Kennett said the club will hold a special meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Grecian Steak House to discuss fundraising options.

"I am amazed at what we can do when everyone comes together," Davis said.

Davis said any money remaining after the services are paid for will be used to set up a scholarship in Tijerina's name.