Fundraiser launched to give tragic Hartlepool man Gabriel Kariuki 'befitting send off'

Gabriel, 26, had been had been missing since mid-May and was last seen in the Victoria Road area of town in the early hours of Tuesday, May 18, after leaving home the previous day.

Cleveland Police confirmed earlier this week that the body of a man found on the beach at Seaton Carew on Friday, June 25, was Gabriel.

Following the tragic news, Gabriel’s loved ones have started an online fundraising appeal for his funeral, saying he touched their hearts “in a way we will never be able to describe.”

The organisers said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the unfortunate passing of Gabriel Kariuki who went missing on Monday 17th of May and was found Friday the 25th June, 2021, in Hartlepool.

“Gabriel touched our hearts in a way we will never be able to describe.

"A loved son, nephew, cousin and friend. It’s hard to comprehend that you're gone, Gabriel.

"Thank you to all who helped us search for Gabriel.

"We are hoping to put together befitting send off for our beautiful boy. We would appreciate your help, your thoughts and your prayers.”

It comes as police shared a poignant video on behalf of Gabriel’s family, showing them completing a rockery tribute to Gabriel at the beach.

Officers have said that his death is not being treated as suspicious and an inquest is expected to shortly open.

The Go Fund Me online appeal has already raised nearly £850 of its £8,000 target. To donate, search for “Donate in memory of Gabriel (GG) Gatu Kariuki”.

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to all of our news and sport, see fewer ads, experience faster load times, test your brain with daily puzzles and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. The Hartlepool Mail has been in town since 1877, and your support means we can continue telling your stories for generations to come. Click here to subscribe.