Donovan Joshua Leigh Metayer, a 26-year-old survivor of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, died by suicide on December 15, according to a statement shared by his family.

Metayer had endured significant mental health challenges for several years following the traumatic attack that claimed the lives of 17 people.

Metayer was a senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School at the time of the February 14, 2018 shooting.

His family said the trauma of that day, coupled with the loss of classmates and the long-term psychological effects of the event, profoundly altered the trajectory of his life.

In the years that followed, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and struggled with depression, survivor’s guilt, emotional instability, and extended periods of isolation.

Despite these challenges, Metayer remained deeply loved by his family, who described him as intelligent, humorous, and compassionate. He underwent years of treatment that included therapy, psychiatric care, medication, and multiple hospitalizations related to suicidal ideation.

His sister, who shared the news of his death publicly, said he fought a seven-year battle with mental illness.

In recent years, Metayer made notable efforts to rebuild his life. He earned an information technology certification, secured employment at Office Depot, and received ongoing care through the Henderson Behavioral Health Clinic and a private psychiatrist.

His family said these steps reflected his determination to move forward despite persistent struggles.

Following a mental health crisis in 2021, Metayer was legally prohibited from purchasing a firearm under a Risk Protection Order.

That order expired earlier this month.

According to his family, within days of the order lapsing, he legally obtained a handgun and died by suicide at his home.

In the wake of his death, Metayer’s family has established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and to create a fund in his name at the Henderson Behavioral Health Clinic.

The fund is intended to support individuals facing behavioral health challenges and to improve access to mental health care in Florida.

His family said they hope his story serves as a reminder of the long-term effects of trauma and the urgent need for sustained mental health support, particularly for survivors of mass violence.

Those close to Metayer emphasized that his life mattered and that his death underscores the ongoing mental health crisis affecting young people across the country.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or thoughts of suicide, help is available.

In the United States, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, or by visiting 988lifeline.org. Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.