BANGOR, Maine — An online site seeking donations for funeral expenses for the victims of a domestic violence slaying over the weekend in Garland had raised nearly $5,000 by Thursday afternoon.
“Christina Ann Sargent, Duwayne Coke, and Destiny Sargent were all murdered on December 20, 2014,” said a posting on the site, labeled Sargent Memorial Fund. “Our family needs help to give them a proper burial. Thank you in advance for anything you can do to help.”
Sargent, 36, and her children, Duwayne Coke, 10, and Destiny Sargent, 8, were found dead Saturday in the home they shared in Garland with Keith Coleman, 27.
The fundraising effort was created by Rebecca Lynn Ray on Sunday, Dec. 21, on the Gofundme website.
As of 4 p.m. Thursday, 75 people had contributed $4,985 toward the goal of $30,000. Contributions ranged from $5 to $1,000.
Karen LeCuyer, who identified herself as “Destiny’s first-grade teacher,” contributed $100.
“I am praying for healing and peace for your family,” she wrote on the Web page. “Destiny was such a special little girl and she will always be in my heart.”
Coleman was arrested Sunday in Bucksport and charged with three counts of murder.
Coleman confessed to police that he killed his girlfriend in front of the children and then killed them because they witnessed the crime, according to the probable cause affidavit filed by Detective Greg Mitchell of the Maine State Police’s major crimes unit north.
Court documents indicated that the victims were strangled.
Funds to cover funeral expenses also could be obtained through the Maine Victims’ Compensation Fund.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and would like to talk with an advocate, call 866-834-4357, TRS 800-787-3224. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and is accessible from anywhere in Maine.