Online appeal in memory of tragic Hartlepool man Gabriel Kariuki exceeds £9,000 target within days

A GoFundMe page was set up in memory of the 26-year-old to gather donations and encourage people to send their thoughts and prayers to his loved ones following his tragic death.

His body was found on the beach at Seaton Carew on Friday, June 25, after he was reported missing by his mother Annie on Monday, May 17, after she last saw him in the Grange Road area of Hartlepool

Cleveland Police confirmed on Tuesday, June 29, the body had been identified has Gabriel, adding its specially trained officers would be continuing to offer his family their support.

The force also shared a video with permission from Annie, showing a display which had been created on the beach in tribute to him, which spelt out his name and was accompanied by a cross.

The page was set up for the family of Gabriel, known as GG through his full name Gabriel Gatu Kariuki, with a £9,000 target.

But that was surpassed by hundreds of pounds within the space of four days.

Among the tributes left on the page includes one which says: “Your energy, charisma, infectious laugh and warming smile will never be far from our thoughts.”

Another added: “A truly infectious and humble guy, always had time for people, an amazing human being.

"I am so sorry for the family and close friends of him, gone far too soon.”

The tribute on the page said he had been a “loved son, nephew, cousin and friend” and said it was hoped funds could be raised for a “befitting send-off to our beautiful boy”.

Police, friends and family had searched for the graduate since he was last sighted in the Victoria Road area in the early hours of Tuesday, May 18, close to Loons bar.

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

Anyone who would like to support the Donate in Memory of Gabriel (GG) Gatu Kariuki funding appeal can add to it via https://gofund.me/16b78cc4.

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