Heartless scammers create dodgy fundraiser in memory of Nathan Mwanza, stabbed to death at Wyndham Vale
As if it wasn’t enough to lose their son, the family of allegedly murdered Wyndham Vale man Nathan Mwanza have had to deal with a fake fundraiser scam just days after his death.
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Heartless scammers have preyed upon the grieving family of a man allegedly murdered at a bus stop by creating a dodgy fundraiser for their own financial gain.
The family of Nathan Mwanza, who was mercilessly stabbed to death at Wyndham Vale on Wednesday, are “disheartened” after an “unknown individual” created the fake appeal for money.
The Werribee man’s family, who are still coming to terms with the loss of their loved one, say the faceless individual created the GoFundMe imitating the family.
“It has come to our attention that an unknown individual, unfortunately, created a GoFundMe campaign without the consent or knowledge of Nathan’s father, Papa Samuel,” a statement released on Friday morning read.
“Initially, it was believed that Papa Samuel was the creator of the campaign, however, we have now confirmed that this is not the case.
“In the midst of our grief and heightened emotions, there was a lack of communication with Papa Samuel regarding the GoFundMe campaign.
“We are disheartened that someone would exploit this situation for personal gain. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”
Friends of Mr Mwanza and his sister, Naomi, have been quick to condemn the attempted fraud.
“His family is still processing what’s happening while some weirdo is busy scamming people in Nathan’s name,” friend Julienne wrote online.
“People are evil. This behaviour is absolutely disgusting,” friend Sylvie said.
“Some people are rotten to the core,” another remarked.
The dodgy fundraiser claimed to have been created by Mr Mwanza’s father who was aiming to raise cash for a funeral.“Help us lay my son to rest after the tragic loss in Wyndham Vale. I am heartbroken,” the page’s description read before it was taken down.
The 23-year-old died at the bus stop on Haines Drive after he was involved in an altercation on-board a public bus about 8pm on Wednesday.
The pair of alleged attackers then brutally punched, kicked and stabbed their helpless victim and left him for dead on the side of the road.
Mr Mwanza’s family say GoFundMe is investigating the deceitful fundraiser and refunds are expected to be handed out.
It is not known how much cash was raised and it appears the fundraiser has been swiftly terminated.
“We understand how much this situation means to all of you, and we want to assure you that we are taking the necessary steps to resolve this issue,” the statement continued.
“We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support for Nathan and our family during this difficult time.”
A new, legitimate, fundraiser was launched by the family on Friday afternoon.
It is not the first time crooks have preyed upon families mourning the death of a loved one.
Lachlan Morganti last year pleaded guilty to stealing money from a fundraiser created in memory of Hannah McGuire, who was allegedly murdered in Ballarat.
Morganti said he was “incredibly sorry” for wagering nearly $65,000 away amid his “uncontrollable gambling addiction”.
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