When three local Pizza Hut employees were killed during an unsuccessful robbery attempt 10 years ago, the company immediately reached out to their families.
It covered funeral expenses and raised funds so that family members could attend the murder trial, which was moved to Prescott. Brent Kyte, board chairman of Pizza Hut of Arizona, even attended the trial of the two young men charged with the slayings.
A decade later, the company's commitment to the victims — Robert Curry, James Bloxham and Melissa Moniz — remains, as it will present a $25,000 check in their memory to Homicide Survivors this morning.
Homicide Survivors is an organization that helps grieving families from the day of the slaying through court hearings and trials.
The group, which has been in existence for more than a decade, worked with the families of the Pizza Hut employees who were killed Jan. 17, 1999, at the restaurant, in the 7900 block of East Broadway.
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As the 10th anniversary neared, Kyte said he was trying to think of a way to honor the employees.
But then he read a newspaper article about Homicide Survivors having a difficult year ahead with a reduction in grant money and fewer people being able to make donations.
"They were clearly in need, and 10 years ago when we encountered difficult times, they were there for us, so it seemed like the right thing to do," he said.
He called Gail Leland — founder of the organization — and let her know that he wanted to help. He also asked the families be present for the presentation of the check.
"I couldn't hardly believe it when he called me," Leland said. "He's a very kind and compassionate and generous man. This really lets the families know that they're not forgotten."
Robert Curry's sister, Kathy Weir, was surprised by the donation but agreed that it couldn't go to a better organization.
"I think it's something really wonderful," Weir said. "It's really touching he's doing something like this, and $25,000 will go a long way in that organization.
"Homicide Survivors is an organization I wish no one had to hear about, but when the time comes, they are invaluable," she said.
How to help
If you would like to make a donation to Homicide Survivors, go to www.azhomicidesurvivors.org or send a contribution by mail to Homicide Survivors Inc., 32 N. Stone Ave., Suite 1408, Tucson, AZ 85701.
