Buffalo Grove Shooting: GoFundMe Set Up For Victim

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Calling him a "joyful presence in any gathering," the sister of a man shot and killed by Buffalo Grove police last week has set up a GoFundMe to assist with funeral costs. Nicole Howard, one of two sisters of Brian Howard, 25, is hoping to raise $10,000 for the campaign.

She said any extra proceeds will be put toward the creation of a non-profit organization in his name "that will speak and practice efforts to reduce death by mental illness and proper police interaction."

As of Thursday, $6,321 has been raised. GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.

Howard, who was armed at the time, died Dec. 2, in the first officer-involved shooting ever in Buffalo Grove, according to Police Chief Steven Casstevens. Nicole Howard said her brother had been battling with depression and anxiety "for far too long, but was taking proactive steps in bettering himself and was on the road to getting better," according to the GoFundMe campaign.

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Brian Howard was described by his sister as someone who had "absolutely no trouble making the room laugh, an avid Chicago sports fan, and possessed such a caring heart."

According to his obituary, Brian was the cherished son of Kenneth (Patricia) Howard and Kristine Howard; beloved brother of Nicole, and twin brother of Danielle; loving stepbrother of Amanda Tarver, Amber (John) Ghegan and Austin VerVynck; proud grandson of Jeraldine, the late Roger Howard, Florence R. Prosi and the late Alex J. Prosi.; dear nephew of Greg, Jeff and Steve Howard. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Brian is also survived by his beloved dogs, Nala, T'La, Kiwi and Riley, in particular, being Brian's absolute biggest fan.

Visitation is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, at Countryside Funeral Crematory, 950 South Bartlett Road, Bartlett. A funeral is planned for 6 p.m. Following services, cremation will be private at Countryside Crematory. For more information, visit here.