Hundreds gather for benefit for slain Mo. girl

CARTHAGE (AP) - A fundraiser to help the family of a 12-year-old Missouri girl who was kidnapped and killed last month drew hundreds of people, many of whom didn't know the girl or her family.

The daylong benefit on Sunday included auctions, games, food, bands and a poker tournament. Some of the money raised will help pay funeral expenses for Adriaunna Horton, whose body was found Aug. 21, two days after she disappeared while playing with friends in Golden City. Other funds will fund a trust fund for the girl's three younger sisters and be used to build a monument to her.

Chris Goodwin, who helped organize the fundraiser, said he didn't know the Hortons but wanted to help them.

"I have a 13-year-old daughter, so it hits close to home for me," he said. "What happened to them is tragic - and a horrible injustice."

Adriaunna's father, James Horton, said he couldn't express his gratitude to those who organized the event and the people who attended. He, his three daughters and other family members attended Sunday's event.

"This guy (Goodwin) didn't know me from Adam, but he put all of this together," he said. "I appreciate all of it very, very much."

Bobby Bourne Jr., 34, of Lockwood, is charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping and rape in Adriaunna's death.