An online fundraising campaign to support the family of a 15-year-old Vancouver boy who was stabbed Saturday during a fight at a Dunbar park has more than doubled its goal in under 24 hours since its launch.
The boy died in hospital Sunday, and a 14-year-old boy has been charged in relation to the incident which took place at Almond Park.
Police are not naming the teen victim, but he is identified on the GoFundMe campaign page started Sunday by his "Friends."
The aim of the crowdfunding campaign is to "raise money for his mother."
A number of donors have left heartfelt messages for the boy's family.
"This happened very close to where we live, it easily could have been my son. So shocked. My heart goes out to the family," reads one donor's post.
"Whether we were playing soccer, making jokes, or getting into arguments, you always managed to put a smile on my face. Throughout elementary you were my best friend and I will miss you so much," writes one of the teen victim's friends.
One of the 15-year-old boy's former teachers remembers the youth fondly: "I can still see him jumping around and telling me crazy stories... when he laughed, it was with all his soul. I will always remember that laugh... My heart goes out to his family."
The goal of the campaign was to raise $7500 for the boy's mother but it has already drawn more than double that in support.
The 15-year-old was stabbed during an altercation between two groups of young people that happened at about 1:30 p.m. Saturday.
During the incident, the 15-year-old was stabbed in the chest by another teen and was taken to Children's Hospital for care, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
“The Vancouver Police Department’s Homicide Unit is now leading the case and will continue gathering evidence to support the ongoing investigation.”
A 14-year-old boy was arrested nearby the crime scene and has been charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Anyone with information is asked to contact VPD’s Homicide Unit at 604-717-2500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
