5K Fun Run, Walk To Benefit Cipriano Family

FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) - Community members in Farmington Hills and beyond have joined together to raise funds to benefit the Cipriano Children's Trust Fund.

The Cipriano Classic 5K Fun Run and Walk will take place Friday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. at the Farmington Family YMCA. The cost is just $25-30 depending on registration date. Participants registered by May 25 are guaranteed a race t-shirt. The race t-shirt color is white and was specifically chosen as a sign of hope – hope for healing and for love to conquer.

Farmington Hills residents 51-year-old Rose Cipriano and her 17-year-old son Salvatore were critically injured after allegedly being beaten with a baseball bat in their home. Both suffered head injuries in the attack that left Cipriano's husband, Bob, dead. Two other children, Salvatore's twin Tanner and 8-year-old Isabella, hid during the brutal beating and got out unharmed.

Alleged culprits 19-year-old Tucker Cipriano, the couple's adopted son, and his 20-year-old friend, Mitchell Young, were charged with first-degree murder in the baseball bat attack that was allegedly fueled by drugs and the desire to break into a safe in the family's home.

Jenny Birmelin, organizer of the event, said the grassroots effort started as an idea from one of Rose Cipriano's neighbors and quickly took hold in the hearts of many whom then formed the event committee.

Registration is available on-line at www.active.com, in-person or by mail to:

Farmington Family YMCA
28100 Farmington Road
Farmington Hills, MI, 48334.

Click here to download and print the entry form.

The 5K is open to all. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. with a welcome announcement and group warm-up and stretching. The race officially begins at 7 p.m. from the Farmington Family YMCA parking lot. Participants can walk or run through the scenic community course.

Those unable to attend the Cipriano Classic 5K and who wish to make a donation to the Cipriano Children's Trust Fund can do so at the www.active.com race registration page.

While Rose Cipriano has been moved from Botsford Hospital to a rehabilitation center, Salvatore Cipriano is still listed in critical condition.