Donovan Metayer, a survivor of the 2018 Parkland school shooting, died at 26, his family said. His sister, Nancy Metayer Bowen, confirmed he died by suicide on December 15.
Metayer attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Former student Nikolas Cruz opened fire there, killing 17 people and injuring 18. A judge sentenced Cruz to life in prison without parole in November 2022.
Metayer’s family said he carried “unimaginable sorrow” after the attack. They said he struggled with depression, guilt, mood swings, and long isolation. They also said doctors diagnosed him with schizophrenia seven years ago. He went to the hospital several times for suicidal thoughts.
With help from the Henderson Behavioral Health Clinic, his family said he started to heal. He earned an IT certificate. He also worked at an Office Depot in Coral Springs and earned a promotion.
His family now plans a mental health fund in his name to:
- expand access to counseling and support
- help with housing and health care across Florida
The fundraiser had raised $36,331 toward a $70,000 goal at the time of writing.
If you need help, call your local emergency number or a suicide hotline in your country.
