Fundraiser for playground in honor of three murdered girls

RIVER FALLS (WITI) -- Residents in River Falls this weekend ran for a cause -- to raise money for a playground to be built in memory of three little girls.

More than 1,200 friends, family members and strangers showed up to run in support of Jessica Schaffausen.

The run raised more than $30,000.

The money will go towards building a new playground in memory of Schaffausen's three late daughters.

Schaffausen's three young girls were killed by their father, Aaron Schaffausen last year.

He is currently serving three consecutive life sentences for the murders.

"It's been difficult. I definitely take things one day at a time. Just thinking about my girls makes me very happy," Jessica Schaffausen said.

The new playground will be called the "Tri-Angels Playground" and is meant for children of all ages and physical abilities.