Fundraiser Launched To Help Pay For Funeral Of Murdered Danbury Man

CARMEL, NY — A fundraising campaign is underway to help pay for funeral expenses of a Danbury man who was killed earlier this month.

The death of Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez, 66, of Danbury, has been ruled a homicide, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, which is handling the investigation. The victim’s family had reported him missing to Danbury police on Dec. 1. His body was found Sunday in the Croton Falls Reservoir in Carmel.

The GoFundMe campaign, “In Memory of Aurélio, a True Example of Faith,” has a fundraising goal of $18,000.

As of Tuesday at 3 p.m., it had raised $10,085 via 119 donations.

“With deep sadness, we are here to ask for your help and support to honor the memory of our dear brother Aurélio,” the campaign states. “His family is devastated by the loss.”

According to campaign organizer Fabiane Colere, money raised will go toward the funeral, family protection and living expenses, counseling and legal fees.

The victim is being remembered for his devotion to family and love for animals, according to Colere.

“He was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others,” the campaign states. “His dedication to the missionary work and to his neighbor was inspiring, and his absence will be felt by all who knew him.”

An investigation into Zhunio-Orbez’s murder is ongoing. Police on Monday announced they were looking for the victim’s livery cab, which investigators believe the perpetrator stole after the homicide.

“We trust that justice will be done in memory of the man that Aurélio was, a man of great heart and character,” the campaign states. “We believe that the police will give us answers to such cruelty and that those responsible will be brought to justice.”

Read more:
Body Found In Reservoir In Carmel, NY ID’d As Missing Danbury Man