A 34-year-old New Zealand man, Nick Stacey, has been shot and killed in the Philippines while defending his girlfriend from muggers.
According to reports, the couple was approached by two men on a motorcycle who then pointed a firearm at Stacey’s girlfriend. In an attempt to protect his partner, Stacey intervened and tried to grab the assailant's weapon. The suspect, however, fired the gun and hit Stacey in the chest, killing him on the spot.
The incident happened shortly after midnight on Sunday, local time, in the city of Makati, in the Metro Manila region. The two men are said to have taken Stacey’s girlfriend's wallet and cell phone before fleeing the area.
Local police are currently hunting for the suspects.
Back in New Zealand, Stacey's family members have started a fundraising campaign to bring his body back home. The Givealittle page set up to help raise the money has received a great deal of attention, with many donors expressing their condolences and support.
Stacey was visiting his girlfriend, Pamela, in the Philippines when the incident happened.
His family described him as a young, kind-hearted, selfless, and loving man who always put others first. Stacey was actively involved in his local community and church in Auckland, where he was a well-loved kids' church leader, always ready to volunteer when help was needed.
During the COVID lockdowns, he also voluntarily shopped for and delivered groceries to vulnerable people.
The loss of Nick Stacey has devastated his family and friends, and the entire community is mourning his passing.
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