A couple of Augusta business owners raising money to help pay for Latania Carwell’s funeral expenses.
The teenager’s body was found in South Augusta last week after being missing for nearly a year.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against her stepfather, Leon Tripp, who is charged with murder.
Earlier this week the District Attorney formally charged her mother, Tanya Tripp, with murder.
Many say the discovery of Carwell’s remains mean closure for her family, friends and the community. Still, the final step is laying her body to rest.
Chavis Lawrence, a local business owner, is helping raise money for the funeral cost, despite not knowing the teenager.
“It just felt like the right thing to do,” Lawrence told WJBF NewsChannel 6.
Lawrence says he wants to send Carwell home in a big way and started a GoFundMe account. He says the family hasn’t asked for donations, but he felt compelled to answer the call and use his platform to help.
To donate please visit GoFundMe.com/JanellMemorial
On Saturday, Auto Brite Mobile Car Wash owner Josh Miller is holding a car wash. All the proceeds will go towards Carwell’s GoFundMe.
The event is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat., March 17, 2018.
It’s taking place at the O’Reilly Auto Parts store at 1504 North Leg Road in Augusta. All donations count.
If you can not make it out to the car wash the link to donate directly on the GoFundMe page.
The goal is to raise $5,000 dollars.
Count on WJBF NewsChannel 6 to bring you the latest on this developing story.
