A fundraising page has been set up to help the family of a West Belfast man give him the "send off he deserves" following his sudden death this week.
Police are investigating the sudden death of Malachi (Mal) McBurney who died at an apartment block in the Redwood Court area of Dunmurry on Wednesday, February 19. A well-known figure on social media, the 25-year-old has been described as a "character and a gentleman" who was known for his upbeat spirit and good humour.
In a JustGiving page set up to support his family and help with funeral costs, it said the young man had died "in the most incomprehensible way." A funeral notice described Mal as the "beloved son of Una and Jim, much loved brother of Patrick and Orla, much loved uncle and Brother-in-law."
Read more: Tributes to Belfast man who died in tragic incident at Dunmurry apartment
Read more: PSNI issue sudden death update and warn against online speculation
The 25-year-old was well-known in the Belfast music scene as rapper Mal Mc, with close friend Kevin 'Kevi Forex' Finnegan, saying he is heartbroken at Mal's passing and is still struggling to come to terms with what has happened. Tributes have described him as a "cherished friend," a "gentleman and a character", and someone who would "keep everyone entertained."
A fundraising page set up to support his family has raised £7,000 in just a few hours. A statement on the page on behalf of the family reads: "Due to the sudden death of our beloved Malachi in the most incomprehensible way we are required to pay up front for a grave before we can even begin to plan on burying our Malachi. Naturally, for Malachi's age we could never have foreseen this and there were no plans in place.
"As a family, we don't have access to that kind of money and are asking those who knew and loved Malachi for any donations however small they might be able to make to help us bury Malachi and give him the send off he deserves."
A spokesperson for his former team, Albion Star Football Club, said they are "deeply saddened" at his passing. They added: "Young Mal was introduced to our club through Dave Steele and spent two seasons playing under the guidance of Dave and Gio.
"May Mal’s legacy live on in the memories of those who knew and played with him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the McBurney and Matthews families at this sad time. May he rest in peace."
Mal's death was reported to police shortly after 3.20pm on Wednesday and an investigation has now been launched. Police have also called for an end to "online speculation" regarding his death.
Detective Inspector Bell said: “We are in the very early stages of our investigation to ascertain the circumstances and a post mortem examination will be progressed in due course.
“To assist with our investigation, we would appeal to the public to come forward with any information they may have in relation to this incident.
“Were you in the Redwood Court area yesterday [Wednesday] between 12 and 4pm and witnessed any persons in the area which could assist our investigation?
“I am also aware of speculation on social media platforms connected to this incident. I would caution against any speculation and ask that if you have any information that could assist us to get in contact. If you have CCTV, dashcam or other footage that may be useful to officers, please contact us via 101 or online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ and quote reference number 1100.
“Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
The fundraiser to support Mal McBurney's family can be accessed by clicking here.
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