Chili Cookoff Fundraiser for Absarokee Family Ripped Apart by Violence

It's been about six weeks since the quiet community of Absarokee, MT, was struck by horrific violence. On December 8th, mother and daughter, Justine Dawson and Nila Dawson, were shot and killed. Husband/dad Greg Dawson survived, but was gravely injured in the incident. Last week, he was sent to Salt Lake for additional care and faces a challenging road to recovery.

The suspect, Tyler Allen Turney, age 23, rolled his pickup truck into the Stillwater River attempting to flee. He pleaded not guilty on December 11th and is being held without bail at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility. His next court appearance is February 19, with a trial date of May 18.

Read More: Arrest in Yellowstone County: What Happened This Week?

Hot Chili, Cold Beer, Great Cause.

Canyon Creek Brewing is hosting a chili cookoff fundraiser for the Dawson family on February 21st. Dozens of chili cooks are expected to submit their tasty chili for the event, and there will be a raffle and a silent auction.

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Tasting and judging at Canyon Creek will take place from 3 - 7 pm, with the silent auction closing at 7:30. The event is organized by Greg Dawson's friend and former co-worker, Trebor Nedbalek.

There is a limit on the total number of chili cookoff entries, so if you'd like to show off your awesome recipe, secure your spot today by calling or texting Trebor at 406-384-8182. He's also the guy to reach if you'd like to donate silent auction items, raffle items, or make a cash donation.

I can only imagine the grief the dad is going through.

I suspect his broken heart hurts as much as his physical injuries. If you like chili, beer, and helping out your fellow Montanans, consider attending the Dawson Family Chili Cookoff at Canyon Creek Brewing on February 21. A GoFundMe page for the Dawson family can be found HERE.