Rohnert Park Family Organizes Softball Fundraiser in Memory of Calli Murray

Calli Murray’s , when 18-year-old Kaitlyn Dunaway ran over the 2-year-old and her mother Ling, killing the little girl, has ignited a storm of community support, from the that drew more than 500 people to Sally Tomatoes Feb. 27 and raised $25,000, to local residents who have set up trust funds at area banks in Calli’s name. 

Now, a Rohnert Park family who’s never met the Murrays is spearheading another fundraiser — this time a softball game that’s already garnered attention from Bay Area sports teams, including the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors.

“We went to the mailbox today, and saw this flyer for a day of softball in Calli’s name,” said Jeff Murray, the husband of Ling and father of Calli. “It is so incredible that so many people who have never met us are willing to help.”

“Every day it sinks in how strong this community is; we can’t go anywhere or turn a corner without someone reaching out to us to offer us help, or condolences or a hug,” Murray added. “I was blown away by the Fabulous Women, and then Christal Barquero set up a fund at Redwood Credit Union for us, then there was the Lyons Club [spaghetti dinner], and now this.”

The softball game fundraiser, called “Play for Calli: a Men’s Softball Tournament,” is being planned for Magnolia Park on July 23, and is being organized by Danielle and Darrel Cattani, who have three kids, ages 4, 8 and 10.

“What sparked the idea is just wanting to help in some way,” said Danielle Cattani. “We live just a couple blocks from the Murrays, so when the accident happened, it was really close to home for us. It really could have happened to anybody.” 

“We took our kids out there and explained to them what happened, and to teach them how important it is to watch out,” she added. 

City Manager Gabe Gonzalez, weeks after the accident at Medical Center Drive and Snyder Lane, on and dozens of other intersections and streets citywide to evaluate what safety precautions should be undertaken after .

Cattani said so far, the San Francisco Giants have donated an autographed baseball, the Warriors have donated memorabilia as well, and local restaurants have already started giving gift certificates.

The family is still seeking sponsorships, raffle prizes, bake sale items and teams to play. Cost is $250 per team. 

“It’s so new in the planning process, that we’re really open to anything,” Cattani said. “We’re even looking at having some live music play.”

Editor's note: If you're interested in helping in any way, please contact Danielle at 707-478-0665 or Darrel at 707-349-0836.