Cervantes murder: John Matta’s devastated friends set up GoFundMe page

A GoFundMe page has been set up in memory of murder victim John Matta, who was allegedly killed after he stopped to help a man who had rolled his car in the middle of the night near Cervantes.

Mr Matta, 38, has been described by friends and family as an “inspiration” for turning to social media to document the positives he had found in his life after having one of his legs amputated eight months ago.

But his life was tragically cut short, allegedly by 19-year-old Benjamin Jack McLaughlin when he tried to help the teenager after he crashed his father’s white Mitsubishi Pajero on Indian Ocean Road in Nambung.

Police will allege Mr Matta had pulled over to help Mr McLaughlin near the Cervantes turn-off but an “incident occurred between the two which resulted in the victim’s death”.

Exactly how Mr Matta died remains unclear, but his body was discovered when firefighters found the Pajero alight about 12.30am on Tuesday, September 26.

Now, a GoFundMe page has been set up in memory of the 38-year-old Egyptian.

“We are launching this fundraiser in memory of John, to raise funds that will go toward causes and initiatives that he held dear to his heart,” page organiser Matthew Ibraheem wrote.

“In a world that sometimes seems filled with chaos and uncertainty, there are those rare individuals who shine as beacons of love, kindness, and compassion.

“To those who knew John, he was one of a kind. With his infectious smile, his radiating heart, and his incredible singing voice, he was taken from us too soon.”

Mr Ibraheem said Mr Matta was an “extraordinary soul” who touched the lives of countless people with his selflessness and love for humanity.

“John’s heart overflowed with love, and his actions spoke louder than words. An extraordinary individual who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those in need. His compassion and dedication to making the world a better place touched the lives of everyone he encountered,” Mr Ibraheem added.

The funds raised via the page will go to various groups, including the Limbs 4 Life charity and Coptic Orphans, a group that helps vulnerable children in Egypt.

Mr McLaughlin appeared in Perth Magistrates Court last week charged with murdering Mr Matta, stealing a motor vehicle and aggravated criminal damage by fire.

He was remanded in custody to reappear later this month.