LaGrange IGA Car Show Raises $13K for Ambushed Lorain Officers and Families

Community Comes Together to Support First Responders

In a heartfelt display of unity, the LaGrange IGA, in collaboration with the LaGrange Firefighters Association, successfully raised $13,547.50 at the 15th annual Car Show held on July 26. This event was organized with a special purpose: to support the officers of the Lorain Police Department and their families who were impacted by a tragic shooting that occurred on July 23.

Officer Phillip C. Wagner, a 35-year-old married father of three, lost his life after being injured in the incident. Two other officers were also wounded during the attack. The tragedy struck when Wagner and another officer were having lunch on River Bend Drive and were ambushed by a gunman. This devastating event prompted an outpouring of support from the local community, especially from those involved in the car show.

Erica Domec, co-owner of LaGrange IGA, and Mike Hornby, the Fire Chief of LaGrange Township Fire and Rescue, emphasized the decision to redirect the proceeds from the car show to aid the affected officers and their families. “We quickly shifted our focus from what we would normally do for our department or ourselves to helping our fellow first responders,” Hornby shared. He highlighted the importance of the partnership between police, fire, and emergency medical services, stating that if one is hurt, the others are there to support and assist.

Typically, the funds raised at the car show go toward the LaGrange Firefighters Association, a nonprofit organization that provides essential equipment for the fire department. However, this year’s event took on a new meaning as one of the injured officers’ wife and brother are both employed by the LaGrange Township Fire and Rescue.

Hornby expressed his deep gratitude for the community's response. “I’m just overwhelmed,” he said. “I was told that some participants left other car shows or didn’t attend their usual events to come support this cause.”

The car show attracted a significant number of vehicles, with approximately 80 on display, according to Domec. The event not only brought together car enthusiasts but also generated substantial donations. Businesses, organizations, and individuals from LaGrange and Lorain County contributed around 75 to 80 gift baskets and additional prizes.

Domec noted that people often want to help during times of tragedy but may not know how. “There’s a lot of people who would rather do something in person than digitally,” she said. The community’s response was overwhelming, with many individuals coming to the grocery store looking for ways to contribute.

Participants in the car show were required to pay a $10 entry fee, and many chose to donate more than the set amount. Domec was moved by the generosity she witnessed. “It’s breathtaking seeing how many people came out and donated,” she said. She extended her thanks to the entire county for their support.

This event exemplifies the strength of community spirit and the willingness to come together in times of need. The efforts of the LaGrange IGA and the LaGrange Firefighters Association have not only provided financial support but have also offered a sense of solidarity and hope to those affected by the tragic incident.