There's shock in Derry after another apparent suicide on Tuesday night.
The body of 22 year-old Eamon Johnston, who was Mr Gay Derry in 2003, was found in a home in Maureen Avenue off Abercorn Road. He was pronounced dead in Altnagelvin Hospital.
Eamon's relatives in the city include his mother Bridget ('Bebe'), who lives in Rossville Street, and his sisters Margaret and Jennifer. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
Tributes have been paid to Eamon on his Bebo site since news of
his death emerged.
Staff at the Foyle centre of the gay advocacy group, the Rainbow Project, are cancelling holiday arrangements to stay open for anyone who wants to get in touch with them.
David McCartney from the Project said that the young man's death has shocked the gay community in the city.
"At this time, the thoughts of everyone here at The Rainbow Project are very much with the family and friends of Eamon. This event has sent waves of shock throughout both the gay and wider community, many of whom are struggling to comprehend what is happening. A sudden death of this nature traumatises communities in a way that is indescribable and causes immense emotional pain for those left behind," he said.
Mr McCartney also said that the Rainbow Project offices in the city will be available for anyone affected by the young man's death. "We are acutely aware of the vulnerability of those that knew Eamon and the need for support at this time. We urge anyone for whom this is having an impact to come and talk to us in confidence. Our door is open to anyone that would like to talk," he said.
The telephone number of the Rainbow Centre is 02871 283030.
