A community organized effort to raise money for the Prill family after a tragic car accident has exceeded organizer expectations.

After an April 18 car accident took the life of 9-year-old Ault Elementary student Zachary Prill and left his mother and sister in the hospital, father John Prill found himself facing an unimaginable tragedy along with accumulating medical debts.

Three days later, an online fundraising campaign was launched by Elizabeth Crunk—a parent involved with Cub Scout Pack 1533, of which Zachary was a member. Crunk said she originally hoped to raise $10,000 for the family to help cover parking, gas, food, funeral expenses and medical bills. However, her goal was quickly exceeded within the first few days.

"At first I raised the goal to $15,000, but now we're passed $50,000, and people keep giving from the heart," she said.

As of April 25, 781 people have donated $53,750, some from as far away as Canada. Multiple people have made donations of $1,000, Crunk said.

The fundraiser will be ongoing for the next 86 days. Although the campaign has been successful early, Crunk said large medical deductibles, having a car totaled and the loss of income from not being able to work leaves the family still in need.

Additional support from the community came through a vigil held for Zachary by Pack 1533 on April 19.

"The pack leadership put together a wonderful vigil, which was well-attended by other scouts and the community," Crunk said. "People may not have known the Prill family personally, but everyone is just trying to help them get through this very trying time."

A funeral will be held Saturday April 26 at 10 a.m. at the Community of Faith Church, 16124 Becker Road.