Echuca/ Moama community mourning ‘cheeky’ teen Levi Griffiths

A border town community is rallying around a heartbroken family after their teenager died after choking on his vomit on Boxing Day.

Tributes are pouring in for Levi Griffiths him from across the Echuca community.

A Victorian border town community is continuing to grapple with the sudden death of a much-loved teenager.

From his loved ones to his school and sporting clubs, heartfelt messages have been pouring in from across Echuca remembering Levi Griffiths.

The 16-year-old was rushed to to the Royal Children’s Hospital on Boxing Day after a shocking incident.

His mum, Brooke Griffiths, took to social media to say her “beautiful boy” choked on his vomit on the morning of December 26, causing him to suffer cardiac arrest.

Paramedics rushed to the scene and an air ambulance transported the 16-year-old to the Royal Children’s Hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma.

“His brain was starved of oxygen too long causing swelling on the brain,” Ms Griffiths posted.

Echuca teenager Levi Griffiths died suddenly after suffering a cardiac arrest on Boxing Day.

Testing revealed a lack of brain activity and his family were informed the talented young sportsman had died.

Levi’s family made the decision to donate his organs “to help other families in need”.

“His big heart needs to live on,” Ms Griffiths added.

Heartfelt messages have been posted online as news of Levi’s untimely death has spread across the community.

Echuca College remembered him as a “cheeky mate”.

“Levi was a cheeky and determined sportsman at school who loved to bait and stir his PE teachers and classmates in any minor game – all with a cheeky smile.

“Well known for his ever-changing hairstyles, we were always guaranteed a wry laugh with Levi.”

The Echuca United Football Netball Club said it was “deeply saddened at the passing of one of our cherished juniors”.

“Levi’s cheeky grin and quiet, sunny disposition was always on display,” a tribute posted to social media said.

The Moama Junior Football Club also extended its deepest condolences to the Griffiths family, noting that Levi was a “vibrant person” and a “valued and respected player and team mate in the Moama juniors”.

“He loved his footy, always tried his hardest and provided many highlights during his time at the club.”

With both his mum and dad Chris self-employed, the community has set-up a fundraiser to pay for the 16-year-old’s funeral costs.

It has so far raised more than $24,000.

Echuca Cricket Club said Levi, also known as “Griff”, would be “sorely missed both on and off the field”.

The club also encouraged the community to support each other as his friends and family come to grips with his loss.

“Let’s support each other as we navigate through this difficult time,” it said online.

“Take the time to check in with your mates and remember all the fun we had with Levi.”

For support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or Headspace on 1800 650 890