This post discusses suicide, and may be triggering for some readers.
The head of the University of Queensland’s Liberal National Club, Wilson Gavin, has died, according to reports.
Gavin, who was at the centre of a protest at a Drag Queen Storytime event in Brisbane yesterday, reportedly passed away this morning.
It is understood his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Overnight, footage of the UQ Liberal National Club storming a drag queen storytelling event at Brisbane Square Library was shared widely online.
In the video, roughly 15 to 20 protesters, including 21-year-old Gavin, were seen chanting “drag queens are not for kids” as they ignored requests from security to exit the library.
When the incident occurred, children and their parents had been listening to drag queen ‘Diamond’ reading.
Last night, the video of the incident became the top trending topic of Twitter, as the faces of the Liberal National Club members were shared widely online.
As the incident went viral, the backlash was fierce.
On social media, Gavin and other members of the group were labelled “ugly” and “twisted” as they were likened to Nazis.
According to the ABC, Queensland Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington refused to respond to the reports in a press conference earlier today.
“In relation to the unconfirmed reports relating to a young man, relating to the out of respect for the family, I won’t be making any comments on the matter,” she said.
“I think today is a day to think about a bit of compassion and respect for people.”
Rainbow Families Queensland, who organised the storytelling event, also released a statement on the news.
“Rainbow Families Queensland were informed earlier today that the leader of yesterday’s drag story time protest [died by suicide] this morning,” the statement said.
“We are deeply saddened by this news and extend our sympathies to his family.”
If you, or a young person you know, is struggling with symptoms of mental illness please contact your local headspace centre here or chat to them online, here. If you are over the age of 25 and suffering from symptoms of mental illness please contact your local GP for a Mental Health Assessment Plan or call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14.
Kid’s Helpline is also available on 1800 551 800.