Memorial Services Scheduled for Arson Victims: Brad Cummings, Destiny Henry, Regina Henry, and Son Jayceon in Austin, Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) — There is a new push to support the families of four victims killed in a fire in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood.

Police say it was set on purpose.

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The victims included a pregnant woman, her 5-year-old son, another mother and Austin Voice editor Brad Cummings.

Lontray Clark, 23, is charged with murder and arson for the fire that happened in June.

SEE ALSO | Boy, 5, fighting for his life after alleged Austin arson attack kills mom: ‘He is in so much pain’

Clark allegedly became enraged, and intentionally set the fatal fire to his friend’s apartment, after learning he may have started dating his ex-girlfriend.

On Friday morning, 37th Ward Ald. Emma Mitts called on the community for financial help. She says three people who died in the fire were family.

“If you were to lose three members of your family, I don’t know how you can stand,” Mitts said.

“The money will be used in good faith, and will go to those family members that need it, and to make sure that the Austin Voice continues to thrive in this neighborhood,” 8th District Rep. La Shawn Ford said.

A memorial for Cummings got underway at noon at New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation for the three other victims, the Henry family, is happening on Friday afternoon at Johnson Funeral Home.

Their funeral is set for Saturday.

READ MORE | Man threw Molotov at Austin apartment, killing 4, after learning ex was dating friend: Prosecutors

The memorabilia for Cummings was done in journalistic fashion, as the community honored his work as editor of the Austin Voice newspaper, while also trying to keep that legacy alive.

“Your voice will be deeply missed, especially in this troubled times,” sister Mary Beth Lawton said.

It was Cummings’ voice that was delivered to churches, schools and homes every week on the West Side.

“He always said that the West Side was very talented. It didn’t even get opportunity to showcase or shine their talent, other outlets. So we were like a vehicle for those individuals,” said Isaac Jones, with Austin Voice.

Jones was the business partner and friend of Cummings. Together they worked for 40 years delivering the newspaper. It’s something that has now come to a financial halt.

“The immediate debt I’m trying raise is $65,000,” Jones said. “The newspaper isn’t publishing right now, since this terrible tragedy happened.”

Founded in Cummings’ living room, keeping the local newspaper alive is now the mission of the loved ones Cummings leaves behind, as they hope to pass it on to the next generation.

“We hope that someone will be able to take the paper, the Voice, and keep the voice of Brad Cummings alive,” Congressman Danny K. Davis said.

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