Fundraiser to aid victim of burning crime

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla., Nov. 22 (UPI) -- A Florida fundraiser to benefit a 15-year-old burn attack victim netted about $50,000 and boosted the family's spirits, the boy's mother said.

Sports celebrities including Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington, and other team members signed autographs at the carnival-like event in Pompano Beach to support Michael Brewer of Deerfield Beach, who was doused with rubbing alcohol and set afire by three schoolmates on Oct. 12, the Miami Herald reported Sunday.

Prosecutors charged three teens, Matthew Bent, 15, Denver Jarvis, 15, and Jesus Mendez, 16, as adults with second-degree attempted murder.

Funds from all attractions -- bounce houses, hot dogs, face painting, silent auctions, raffles, and a golf tournament -- were donated to help Brewer's family, the newspaper reported.

Everglades University presented the family with a tuition scholarship for Brewer, and AllianceCare of Boynton Beach said it will give free home healthcare to the boy when he returns home.

More fundraising is expected, going into December, the newspaper said.