Family sorts through remnants of son's life

Patrick Dennehy's parents spent Tuesday going through his things, unloading a U-Haul truck they drove from Texas on Monday.

Brian Brabazon said the Carson City couple returned from Waco, where the missing Baylor University basketball player's body was discovered on Friday.

The Brabazons learned Dennehy had been found Friday when they were in Albuquerque, heading back to Carson City. They filed a missing person report with the Waco police June 19.

"We just got back last night," Brabazon said. "Patrick's stuff is still in the U-Haul. It was pretty tough packing up his apartment."

Two sales have been organized for the Brabazons, one for Patrick's former Mustang car and a garage sale.

However, Brabazon said the family is not looking for a handout.

James Ackerman, who purchased the Mustang, spoke with Brabazon before announcing he was going to sell the car with the proceeds going to the family.

"He was very gracious to do that, so I accepted," Brabazon said. "But we're not down to our last nickel."

Brabazon said a trust fund is being set up in Dennehy's name, not just to help defray some funeral costs but also to help families in similar circumstances.

"Any donation will be used toward Patrick's funeral, but not all of the money will go to that," he said. "We want to figure out how to do something for other people in this situation. Money won't ease anyone's pain, but it might help out."

With the discovery and identification of the 21-year-old Dennehy's body, Brabazon said things are beginning to settle down.

"It has been a terrible situation," he said. "At least we have closure now and Patrick is at peace. I'm looking forward to meeting everyone at the celebration of his life we will hold in the Bay area."

Carlton Dotson, who had been living with Dennehy, was arrested last week and charged in the Baylor basketball player's death.

"I just want justice served," Brabazon said. "I feel for Dotson's family and I'm sure they're hurting too. People don't seem to take life very seriously anymore."