A fundraising effort is underway to cover funeral expenses for Demetrius Eugene Fleming, a 38-year-old man whose hanging death Friday remains under investigation by the Roanoke Rapids Police Department.

Azarah Brown is the administrator of the GoFundMe page created on behalf of Fleming’s family. “This heartbreaking loss has left the family grieving while also facing the unexpected burden of funeral and burial expenses,” the intro to the fundraising page says. “Demetrius was more than a father. He left an everlasting imprint on his community, just as his parents did before him. He was known as a cheerful, funny man who loved his family, friends, and neighbors deeply. He gave to others whenever he could, always trying to help in any way possible.”

Even through hardships, Brown wrote, “Demetrius wore a smile and kept an incredible drive for his children. His family remembers so many moments when they were on their last legs and he somehow found a way to make ends meet.”

Brown is asking for the community's support in return "as a final testimony of love for their father. These donations will help cover funeral costs and ensure Demetrius receives the proper burial he deserves. Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser, would mean so much to the family during this painful time.”

As of this afternoon, there has been no update on the RRPD investigation.

During a press briefing Friday, Chief Lawrence Wiggins said officers found Fleming connected to a ligature after responding to an attempted suicide call shortly after 6:45 a.m. The 911 call came from someone close to the victim, he said.

Halifax County EMS and the Roanoke Rapids Fire Department responded to provide medical aid, but Fleming was determined to be deceased.