As York Regional Police continue to investigate the death of an infant in Thornhill, the child has been identified.
Both a GoFundMe for the family of the infant and court documents have identified the child as six-month-old Benjamin Berelovich.
York Regional Police are investigating the death as a homicide and have charged 37-year-old Zoya Berelovich with first-degree murder.
On Jan. 4, York Regional Police responded to call for an injured person at a residence near Centre Street and Dufferin Street and upon arrival found the unresponsive infant, police said.
Due to policy regarding domestic situations, York Regional Police cannot confirm the identity of either the child or the woman charged, or their relationship.
A GoFundMe was started to help support the father of the infant, identified as Dror Berelovich on the page. The fundraiser has a goal of raising $50,000 and as of the morning of Jan. 12, it had raised $38,445.
“We are raising funds to help Benjamin's father provide a fitting funeral for his beloved son,” Maria Tsidulko posted on the GoFundMe page. “Your contributions will ensure that Benjamin's brief yet profoundly meaningful life is properly honoured, allowing his family to navigate this unimaginable loss with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
The post said any surplus funds collected will be directed toward supporting Benjamin's father as he takes the necessary time to grieve and cope with the loss of his son.
Donate to the GoFundMe here.
