Tragedy hits second time for one-punch family
Stuart Kelly speaking after the sentencing of Kieran Loveridge in 2014. Photo: AAP Photo: AAP
The family of “one-punch” victim Thomas Kelly has suffered another tragedy with the death of their younger son, Stuart, 19.
The headmaster of Stuart’s former school, The King’s School, released a statement last night telling students and families of Stuart’s death.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of an Old Boy of the School, Stuart Kelly (’15). This is the second great tragedy to affect the Kelly family,” Dr Hawkes wrote.
“The exact circumstances surrounding his death are not known, however, it is enough to know that we have lost a member of our community and therefore our thoughts and prayers go out to Kathy and Ralph Kelly and their daughter Madeleine.”
Stuart was just 14 when his brother, Thomas, was fatally punched in an unprovoked attack in 2012 by Kieran Loveridge, as Thomas walked through Sydney’s King Cross with his girlfriend.
Loveridge was sentenced in 2013 to 13 years and 8 months in prison for the attack.
Thomas Kelly was king-hit on a night out in Kings Cross . Photo: AAP
The Daily Telegraph has reported that Stuart spoke at a gala dinner for the Thomas Kelly Foundation last year about his heartbreak at losing his “best friend” and the “scar” that he carried with him.
“I look back at that moment: I was 14 years old, I was told by a stranger that my brother, my best friend, was going to die. Those few words would change my life forever,” Stuart told the dinner.
“I’m now 17 — that was three years ago. However I carry a deep scar that you cannot see. It’s always there, it never leaves. It sits below the surface of your skin and surfaces when you least expect it.
“(We need) change to stop the growing epidemic of drug and alcohol abuse, and misuse, and to say no to senseless violence.”
If you are experiencing mental health issues or need support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
