A popular video game streamer, who received a raft of hateful messages and death threats after he proposed to his ex-girlfriend on Twitter, has been found dead.
Friends of Byron 'Reckful' Bernstein said on Twitter he had died on Friday.
The 31-year-old was renowned as one the best World of Warcraft players in the world, ranking number one for six consecutive seasons.
His ex-girlfriend and fellow streamer Becca 'Tilts' didn't see the proposal until after he had died.
"He was larger than life, too big for this world," she said in a Twitter statement.
Twitter trolls responded to the proposal with death threats, calling Bernstein "cringe" and accusing him of pressuring his ex-girlfriend into saying yes.
With almost a million followers on video-game streaming website Twitch, 'Reckful' leaves behind a community heartbroken by the loss.
Hours before his death, Bernstein's tweeted: "Ahh, I feel bad for anyone who has to deal with my insanity."
"Please just know in these situations the insane person does not feel in control of their actions," he added.
The former professional Esports player was open about his struggles with mental health, live-streaming his therapy sessions.
"I am happy, I've never felt this way in my life … I'm not saying it's gonna last forever, but right now, I'm (happy)," he said in a video.
Thousands gathered in World of Warcraft to pay tribute to Bernstein in a virtual cathedral, Daily Mail reported.
At his time of death, Bernstein was working with his community to create video game Everland.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
