Family reveals how they will honour dead teenager Cassius Turvey

The family of allegedly murdered teenager Cassius Turvey have revealed how they will spend more than $500,000 raised through crowdfunding.

The family of a Perth teenager who was allegedly murdered in a horrific attack while walking home from school have revealed how they will spend more than $500,000 raised in crowdfunding.

Aboriginal boy Cassius Turvey, 15, and his friends had just stepped off a bus and were walking along Patterson Drive in Middle Swan about 4.30pm on October 13 when a black Ford Ranger utility allegedly pulled up next to them.

Police said Jack Steven James Brearley, 21, exited the vehicle and ran towards them, allegedly bashing Cassius with a metal pole. He died in hospital 10 days later after suffering severe head injuries.

A GoFundMe page set up by his cousin Michelle Wighton has raised more than $503,000 from more than 12,000 individual donations.

“To every single person that has donated to our fundraiser, shared it and offered help – thank you,” she wrote on Monday.

A GoFundMe page set up by Cassius’ cousin Michelle Wighton has raised more than $503,000. Picture: Facebook

“Our family has been blown away by people’s generosity right around the country and it has been comforting for us as we continue to grieve Cassius.

“For anyone wishing to show further support, we invite you to attend one of the vigils or rallies, taking place right around the country, calling for justice for Cassius.”

Ms Wighton said the money would initially be used for the funeral and funeral-related expenses.

“In addition, they will be put towards legal costs – and a potentially costly legal battle – as our family continues to fight for justice for Cassius,” she said.

“Finally, any additional funds will be used to support local youth and to give back to the local community where Cassius lived and grew up, and this will be done in Cassius’ name.”

Tributes have continued to pour in for Cassius, including from strangers.

“My mother passed away two weeks ago, yet I haven’t been able to stop thinking about Cassius, so young and so full of life,” one person wrote on Monday.

“I know that mum is up there in heaven with her arms wrapped around him. RIP beautiful Cassius.”

Money raised from crowdfunding will go towards Cassius’ funeral, legal costs and support for local youth.

Meanwhile, a candlelight vigil will be held at Midland Oval on Monday evening in the boy’s honour, coinciding with Halloween, which was his favourite day of the year.

Attendees are urged to wear their best scary costumes.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti previously said he would attend the vigil.

Vigils will also be held in Warmun Community, Northam, Moora and Geraldton.

Other events will be held across the nation on Wednesday.

Mr Brearley has been charged with murdering Cassius.

He has also been charged with aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm and stealing linked to a 13-year-old boy who was with Cassius at the time.

Police allege Mr Brearley struck the boy with a pole, believed to be shopping trolley handle, then stole the boy’s walking crutches and cap.

Mr Brearley will face Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on November 9.

Originally published as Family reveals how they will honour dead teenager Cassius Turvey