Facebook has come under fire for not acting timely after a British boxer live-streamed his death by suicide to viewers on the social media platform in a move that now points to a mental health campaign.
Fifty-year-old Jonathan Bailey devastatingly live-streamed his own death on Facebook as dozens watching begged him to stop.
The popular community champion who was known as Baz or Bazza, told his social media followers that he intended to take his own life before launching the broadcast.
Distressed users desperately alerted Facebook to what was happening but the live-stream continued. Baz was pronounced dead after paramedics were called to reports of a ‘medical emergency’ at an address on Larkspur Grove, in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
However, it has emerged that Facebook provided fitness fan Baz with “support resources” following his initial post on Saturday afternoon.
The live-stream was later deleted and a Facebook spokesman said: “Our thoughts go out to Mr Bailey’s family at this difficult time.
“We can confirm that the live-stream was deleted very soon after being posted and a further post has also now been removed at the family’s request.
“We take the responsibility of keeping people safe on our platforms seriously, and we will continue to work closely with experts like The Samaritans to ensure our policies continue to support those in need.”
Pals of the former boxer have revealed how he helped others with their mental health but his recent post if anything are indications that he is not in a good place.
The gym founder had shared: “Always be kind to everyone that you meet. You could make a difference. Be kind, always.”
Another post on Sunday, July 5, Baz vowed to stay on his own after slamming ‘liars and cheats’.
He said: “Liars and cheats always try and turn things round and worm their way out of it.
“Definitely staying on my own from now on. Moral of the story. Don’t give your heart to anyone. They will break it.”
Baz had set up a Chesterton gym and previously established a Facebook group to try to tackle the scourge of monkey dust plaguing North Staffordshire.
Hundreds of friends and family have paid tribute following the tragedy.