Warning this article covers suicide.
Over AU$22,000 (NZ$24,000) has been raised to help the family of a man who tragically took his own life at a funeral in front of mourners.
The suicide took place last Tuesday during a funeral service at the Pimpama Island cemetery at Jacobs Well, Gold Coast.
Spike Porter was in the back of a car in during the funeral procession when he took his life, the Gold Coast Bulletin reports. He was 25.
Mourners along with emergency services tried to save Porter but he died at the scene before a rescue helicopter arrived.
Porter's twin brother, Eddie, updated his Facebook profile picture following the tragedy, with a picture of him and Porter smiling and laughing.
A GoFundMe fundraiser was launched on Friday with the stated goal of easing the financial pressure on Porter's family.
In the fundraiser's description, the author said they are "completely devastated".
"Spike is a son, a brother, a twin, an uncle, and loved by us all. He means so much to everyone and will forever be missed."
The author goes on to say a donation big or small would be "greatly appreciated".
"All money raised will go to his family and will help pay for unexpected costs they are now dealing with."
The fundraiser has received 160 donations so far, with donors sharing their grief.
"You will be forever missed!" one person wrote.
"Rest easy brother, never got to meet you but have heard some of the good memories you had with your brother Eddie."
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
