Benefit Planned For Murrieta Homicide Victims' Families

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

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

in her family's Milkwood Lane home, allegedly by William Gary Simpson Jr., who used to live at the home.

at Spelly's Pub & Grille, when off-duty Riverside County sheriff's deputy Dayle William Long, 42, allegedly shot him.

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 contact Rhonda Warner at the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce 951-677-7916, or Mike Hayden at Champion Employer Services 800-513-2153.

All of the money raised from the raffle will be split between the two familes, according to Davidson.

"The events in December were tragic, but do not define us as a city. We are a strong, loving community and I think everyone will really get a sense of that on January 19th at Spelly's," Davidson said.

Editor's Note: This article was updated at 1 p.m. Jan. 4 to correct where inquiries regarding raffle prize donations should be directed to. It also adds an additional quote from Kimberly Davidson.