Beloved gay YouTuber Tai Couture commits suicide

A popular gay YouTuber and LGBTQ influencer has passed away from suicide.

Tai Couture, whose real name was Tyree Williams, took his own life last Thursday. Williams was known for his work as a hairstylist and makeup artist, though he also talked quite a bit about his battle with depression, as well.

After the suicide of 15-year-old Nigel Shelby, a ninth-grader who took his own life earlier this year after being bullied for being gay, Couture wrote an emotional Facebook post about his own struggles.

“My heart mourns for the pain, torment, and loneliness this baby felt preceding his suicide,” he wrote. “My suicide attempt was only a little over a year ago when I cut my wrist with a knife and was hospitalized.”

“Although bullying wasn’t my trigger I know firsthand how it feels to be desperate for the hurt to end. I pray for Nigel’s family, friends, and the LGBTQ community. May the world continue to spread more unconditional love and not hate.”

In 2016, Williams posted a video about a near-fatal car crash that he said may have caused his depression. He also talked about how he made it through that difficult period in his life.

Since the news of his death broke, fans and followers have taken to Twitter to express their shock and sadness.

This week, Williams’ family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of his funeral. So far, it has raised over $5,500.

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