We now know that Stuart Kelly, the brother of coward punch victim Thomas Kelly, may have taken his own life after relentless bullying and abuse following the introduction of Sydney‘s lockout laws.
Close family and mates told the Daily Tele that the 19-year-old was the victim of trolling / hate mail after the restrictions on the city’s nightlife were introduced, largely after advocacy against alcohol-fuelled violence by the Thomas Kelly Foundation.
Stuart was found dead in Mona Vale this past Monday, and his family is reeling from the second unimaginable tragedy.
His passing, which police have said isn’t being treated as suspicious, comes less than a month after the fourth anniversary of the attack on Thomas by Kieran Loveridge in Kings Cross.
Stuart’s Dad Ralph spoke out about his youngest son’s unexpected death, posting this short message to Facebook:
“The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never explained.”
Sister Madeleine, who is now Ralph and wife Kathy‘s only remaining child, paid tribute to both her late brothers with a childhood photo of them.
“You are both so loved. My beautiful brothers, I’ll cherish our memories forever,” wrote the 21-year-old Macquarie Uni student.
Simply heartbreaking, and a reminder that what you say to someone can change the course of his or her life in ways you maybe don’t consider at the time – but always should.
A memorial service for Stuart has yet to be announced.
Source and photo: Facebook.
Hey mates – if this story has caused you distress in any way, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services you can call for support with mental health or in times of crisis are Mensline on 1300 789 978, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, or BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636.
