Antioch Pizza Shop's fundraiser for Huntley Daniels draws overwhelming response from community

ANTIOCH, Ill. - The north suburban community spent Wednesday rallying in support of a young boy who was critically injured when he was thrown from a carnival ride Sunday.

Antioch Pizza Shop held a fundraiser with all profits benefiting 10-year-old Huntley Daniels.

The fundraiser took place, not only in Antioch, but also at its other locations, including in Lindenhurst, Fox Lake, Paddock Lake, Burlington and Kenosha.

According to loved ones, Daniels is in stable condition and is showing major improvements.

He has undergone at least one surgery since the accident Sunday, where he was ejected from the Moby Dick carnival ride at the Taste of Summer Festival in Antioch.

He suffered multiple broken bones, including several facial and jaw fractures. 

The Antioch Police Department and the Illinois Department of Labor are in the midst of a thorough investigation, and on Wednesday, officials announced they’ve taken possession of the carnival ride. Police used a search warrant to seize the ride from All Around Amusement in Lockport.

Meanwhile, as Daniels remains at Comer Children’s Hospital in Chicago, area families are looking for ways to give back.

"We’re all rooting for Huntley," said Karen Wicklein, co-owner of Antioch Pizza Shop.

On Wednesday, his community was sending strength – one slice at a time.

"This place is packed," said Ryan Tolbert.

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All profits made by Antioch Pizza Shop on Wednesday will be given directly to Daniels to assist with medical bills and other resources.

"It’s just going to be a long road, emotionally and physically for this little guy," said Wicklein.

During the dinnertime rush, Wicklein was taken aback when she saw the support from her customers.

"This is overwhelming, I have not had one second to step outside," said Wicklein.

It was a full house – with full hearts.

"I don’t mean to be crying but it’s just great to see what the community is doing," said Susan Strub.

Strub and her grandchildren were at the carnival Sunday when the accident happened. Like Strub, the situation hits close to home for many community members.

"It’s great pizza and a great cause. I’ve got an 11-year-old and a 10-year-old boy," said Kyle Fielder. "It just speaks to what we do here, we take care of each other, we love each other."

One community – with one goal.

"I’m very, very proud to be from Antioch," said Wicklein. "It is a small town with a big heart."

Other local businesses are also stepping up to help. 

Family Heirloom Antiques in Antioch is selling tee shirts that say ‘Antioch, Small Town with Big Heart’ and through Sunday, $5 from every sale will benefit Daniels.

On Friday, The Latte Café & Bakery in Antioch is donating 25 percent of its sales to Daniels.

A Go Fund Me account has been set up to help the family and as of Wednesday evening, it had raised more than $35,000.