A grieving Dayton, Ohio, family is reaching out to their community and beyond for help covering funeral expenses after the sudden and heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Andrew LaPorte.
A GoFundMe campaign started by his great-aunt, Elizabeth Albrinck, has already raised over $2,290 of its $5,000 goal in just two days, with 36 donors stepping up to support the family during one of the most painful moments of their lives.
Andrew was described by those who knew him as a genuine, kind-hearted young man who touched the lives of everyone around him.
Friend Brooklyn Nicole Robinson shared a heartfelt message on social media, writing that Andrew had spent many nights at her home and was “a very genuine soul” whose memory she would forever cherish.
She urged followers to at least share the fundraiser even if they could not donate, and asked the community to keep Andrew’s family and friends in their prayers.
The family says his passing was deeply unjust, particularly given that Andrew lived with mental disabilities.
His great-aunt Elizabeth made clear in an emotional plea that he did not deserve what happened to him and that the family is still reeling from the shock of losing him so suddenly and so young.
Investigation Still Open, Family Awaiting Answers
As of now, the circumstances surrounding Andrew’s death remain unclear. His great-aunt Elizabeth addressed speculation circulating online directly, stating that no official report has been released and that the coroner’s report has not yet been made available to the family.
The case remains under active investigation, and she urged anyone without confirmed information to refrain from spreading unverified claims during such a sensitive time.
The family is focused on giving Andrew a proper farewell while also waiting for the answers they deserve. The weight of grief, combined with the financial pressure of funeral costs, has made an already unbearable situation even harder.
Funeral expenses can easily run into the thousands of dollars, and for many working families, that kind of cost can be overwhelming to face alone, especially without warning.
A Community Coming Together
The response from those who knew and loved Andrew has been moving. Donations have come in from family members and friends alike, including contributions from the Amongero family, Chris Luther, Kylie Tracy, Sandra Ricketts, and many others.
The top donation of $200 came from Martin Foster, a sign of how much this young man meant to the people around him.
Elizabeth’s message on the campaign page was raw and from the heart. She spoke of tears, of unanswered questions, and of a family determined to honor Andrew the right way.
She mentioned that he will be watching over them alongside his grandmother and great-grandmother, a small comfort in the midst of overwhelming pain.
Anyone wishing to support the family can find the fundraiser on GoFundMe by searching
“Help Us Lay Our Beloved Nephew to Rest.”
Every dollar brings the family one step closer to giving Andrew the goodbye he deserves. Shares and prayers are equally welcome as this tight-knit community mourns together and fights for answers.
