A filmmaker, originally from Licking County, said he plans to help a family dealing with the death of their child.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said Addison Craft, 8, was pronounced dead at the scene of a crash Monday along State Route 13, just south of Utica in Licking County.
His step-sister Kaydence Harstine, 6, was taken by helicopter to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus.
Filmmaker John David Hartfield was heading back to his hometown of Utica to screen the premiere of his new movie, "Homecoming," when he heard the news.
He said now, he's using the film's premiere to help raise money for the family of the victims.
"Even though I don't directly specifically know him that way. He's still part of the community and he's still part of Utica," said Hartfield.
Others in Utica are also showing support by posting signs and raising money at the Hometown Market, where the children's mother works.
Craft's principal at Utica Elementary School said the community will miss his constant smile.
"He was a joy, and he'll always be remembered that way," said principal Sharon Greene. "He was an active, energetic, wonderful 8-year-old boy and we miss him."
"Homecoming" premiers Thursday night at Rave Cinema at Polaris.
The benefit follows the movie at 9:00 p.m. at 343 Front Street Tavern in downtown Columbus.
