UPDATED: Community Rallies to Support Arlington’s First Responders

In the wake of Monday’s tragedy on Newland Road, Lisa Brown, a 37-year-old Park Avenue resident, asked her fellow community members to write notes of appreciation and donate money for pizza for Arlington’s first responders.

It was supposed to be a small gesture.

It turned into something much bigger.

As of Thursday afternoon, Brown, who works for a nonprofit that trains service dogs, said more than 75 local families had reached out, with more than 60 notes and $1,400.

The money raised would be way more than enough to cover a few pies, but Andrina’s Pizzeria’s owner wouldn’t take it. He insisted supplying the pizzas free of charge, according to Brown.

“I am so amazed to be a part of such a caring, generous, giving community,” Brown wrote Thursday.

The pizzas went to Arlington police officers Thursday and will go to firefighters Friday.

Money Going to First Step

At the request of Arlington Police Chief Frederick Ryan and Fire Chief Robert Jefferson, the money raised will go to First Step, a local domestic violence support group that is run through the police department and the town’s Department of Health and Human Services.

The group helps woman in the Arlington area who are leaving violent home situations and helps women prevent and resolve issues of family violence.

“I am grateful that such a group exists,” Brown wrote, “and it is gratifying to know that everyone’s generous donations will help women in our area in a very real and tangible way.”

A married couple, Scott and Mei Kum Jones, both 43 of Arlington, and their infant twin sons, Colt and Cameron Jones, who would’ve turned 1 next week, were found dead Monday afternoon in their first-floor condo at 45 Newland Road.

Authorities have not announced the cause and manner of the deaths, as they’re awaiting autopsy results. They have said that it was an isolated incident and that there is no threat to the public. They are also not looking for any additional suspects.

Still Taking Donations

Donations can still be submitted until 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 22 – either by dropping an envelope (cash preferred) through Brown’s mail slot at 122 Park Ave. or to her via PayPal, lisa_g_brown@hotmail.com.

Candlelight Vigil