MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) — Donations and support are pouring in for a first grader in Mattoon. It comes after police said his dad killed his grandmother on Friday.

Mattoon Police said 31-year-old Douglas Reed admitted to fatally beating his mother, 60-year-old Lori Ames, with a hammer. It happened near Oak Ave. and E 30th St.

Now, the community is helping 7-year-old Bradley celebrate his birthday and get through the tragedy. He lived with Ames before her death.

“This has far exceeded any expectations that we ever had for his birthday and even for this whole tragedy,” said Bradley’s cousin Mackenzie Ard. 

Bradley had a party for his birthday on Monday. Family members, friends and even strangers made the day extra special for him.

Presents, monetary donations and the supplies to fully decorate and furnish his new room at his grandfather’s house have flooded in.

Ard said the support has been overwhelming.

“We have had so many people that have stepped up and donated things for Bradley for his birthday,” Ard said. “The other day when we dropped off, I bet we had over 70 birthday bags for him. From clothing, to shoes, to socks, to undies, to all the fun stuff too, we got his entire room decorated. He got a new bed.”

Emerald Acres in Mattoon is keeping the celebration going this weekend, gifting Bradley a free party. 

Sapphire Salon on S 17th St. is still collecting donations for the little boy. You can also donate here.