Rockford families establish GoFundMe campaigns in memory of victims of deadly attacks

Chris Green, Rockford Register Star
Updated ·2 min read
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Three GoFundMe fundraisers have been created for victims killed in Rockford in two separate acts of violence that claimed the lives of five people and left several more injured.

One of the fundraisers is for 18-year-old Jason Jenkins who was killed Sunday while working at the Northridge Drive Walmart in Rockford.

Another fundraiser was created for Romona and Jacob Schupbach, both of whom were killed Wednesday during a string of stabbings and beatings in a southeast residential neighborhood of Rockford.

A third fundraiser has been established for Jenna Newcomb, a 15-year-old girl who also was killed in Wednesday's attacks.

The GoFundMe for Jenkins has a fundraising goal of $35,000.

More: Illinois man who stabbed Walmart employee to death to remain in jail pending trial

Jason Jenkins
Jason Jenkins

"As we grieve the loss of Jason, we come together to support his twin brother, Jasper, a talented and determined young man who is on the cusp of embarking on his college journey as he prepares to graduate from Auburn High School," the page states. "Jason’s greatest desire was to see Jasper flourish and chase his dreams, and we are committed to ensuring that his wish lives on.

"By contributing to this Go Fund Me campaign, you are not only honoring Jason’s memory but also empowering Jasper to pursue a future filled with promise and opportunity. Your generous donations will directly support Jasper’s college fund, providing him with the resources and encouragement needed to follow in his brother’s footsteps and create a legacy of resilience and determination."

More: Officials release names of victims, other details from mass stabbing in Rockford

The Schupbachs' GoFundMe hopes to raise $20,000.

Romona Schupbach, left, and Jacob Schupbach, center.
Romona Schupbach, left, and Jacob Schupbach, center.

"Ramona and Jacob were unfortunate victims from the events in Rockford, Illinois, on Wednesday, March 27," the page states. "(Due) to this tragic and unexpected loss, now is a time to band together and support the Schupbach family.

All funds raised will help fund the memorial services to be announced at a later date. Thank you in advance for your love and support."

The GoFundMe for Newcomb has a goal of $25,000.

"We are extremely saddened to be informing everyone that 15-year-old Jenna Newcomb fell victim and passed away due to injuries she sustained during the murderous attacks that happened in Rockford, Illinois, on Wednesday March 27, 2024," the page states.

"Jenna's sister, Sarah, was also seriously injured and is currently in ICU recovering from her injuries."

Donations will go to the Newcomb family to assist with Sarah's medical expenses and a fund to be established at East High School to assist families with the cost of participation in dance, theater and softball.

Editor's note: The intended use of funds raised for the Jenna Newcomb GoFundMe has been updated in this story. No funds will be used on funeral expenses.

Chris Green is a Rockford Register Star general assignment reporter. He can be reached at 815-987-1241, via email at cgreen@rrstar.com, and Twitter @chrisfgreen.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: GoFundMe accounts established for Rockford homicide victims' families