LAKEVIEW — Friends and family of a young man killed in Lakeview last year are hosting a fundraiser Saturday to create a scholarship in his name.
The fundraiser kicks off at 5 p.m. at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park. His family hopes to raise $50,000 for an endowed scholarship at the University of Iowa in accounting.
The event will feature a silent auction, raffle baskets, snacks and desserts. Donations came from Barraco's, Beverly Bakery, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba, Firehouse Subs, Jenny's Steak House, Mr. Sub and dozens more.
Kevin O'Malley died May 30 after police said he was fatally shot during an armed robbery in the 900 block of West Oakdale Avenue.
"Kevin's horrific death leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of everyone who loves him," his loved ones wrote on the scholarship website. "By setting up a scholarship fund in his name, we hope something positive can come from this tragedy."
O'Malley graduated from the University of Iowa in 2012 and began a career in accounting. His family lived in suburban Palos Park, but he was living in an apartment in Lakeview when the shooting occurred.
His family describes a young man whose "care for his family and friends and his passion for life made him special to everyone who knew him," whether it was by organizing spontaneous road trips, planning a surprise for his girlfriend or babysitting his nephews.
Kristopher Pitts, the man accused of killing O'Malley, is charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery. His next court hearing is set for March 9. He is held without bail.
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: