Grafton donates $9,230 to help retired police sergeant after Christmas fire

It turns out Grafton is just wild about Harry.

That would be retired Grafton Police Sgt. John “Harry” Harrington, whose Old Westboro Road home with Gail Tebo was severely damaged by an electrical fire which broke out during a family dinner on Christmas night. While no one was injured — and even the family boxer, Titan, was safely evacuated — the pair now face months of rebuilding.

On Saturday, Tebo and Sgt. Harrington received a $9,230 boost, courtesy of residents who turned out in droves for a fundraiser sponsored by Todd Harrington (no relation), owner of Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza, and state Rep. David Muradian. The Anzio’s food truck gave away hundreds of pizzas to everyone who dropped by with a donation.

“It’s overwhelming,” Sgt. Harrington said as he greeted friends and strangers who thanked him for his years of service. “Everyone has been so generous.”

As the sun began to set during an overwhelmingly cold day, Muradian eyed the orange bucket, about two-thirds full, of checks and money dropped in by visitors.

“In Grafton, we help each other,” he said, estimating the amount, when tallied up, would amount to hundreds of dollars.

It did, and then some. Grafton takes care of its own.

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