TILTON, Ill. (WCIA) — A Vermilion County village rallied together for a benefit to remember one of their own over the weekend.
44 year-old Mitchell Burks Jr. was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Tilton last month. The community he took care of raised money in his honor.
Burks leaves behind his three-year-old son. The funds raised during the weekend benefit will be given to his family to help them navigate this challenging period.
The benefit was held at Saloon by the Rail, a bar in Tilton where Burks had worked. There was live music throughout the weekend as Burks’ friends and family came together to honor the impact he had on the community.
“This community has lost a wonderful member, and he would’ve done anything for anybody. He just didn’t know any strangers. It’s just a tragedy, an absolute tragedy,” said Nancy Palmer, a friend of Burks.
She said that many members of Burks’ family were at the benefit, including some that traveled all the way from Arkansas.
The benefit also included a memorial ride and a raffle.
Palmer said that the benefit had been a success, and they had a packed house at the Saloon by the Rail. Although they’re not sure how much money they have raised so far, they expect to have the tally by Monday.
