The family of YouTuber Andrew Cross, who was known online as Desert Drifter, have shared details of his final moments before he was taken off life support following a serious car accident.
Andrew, 36, had amassed more than 470,000 subscribers on YouTube by sharing videos of his adventures, which he offered up 'with a historical twist'.
On February 1, Andrew was involved in a car accident while he made his way home from filming at Bears Ears National Monument in Utah, and was left with a serious brain injury and in need of life support.
In recent weeks a fundraiser has been raising money to help cover Andrew's medical expenses, but in an update shared on CaringBridge on March 4 his sister Jenna announced that the YouTuber had been taken on life support one day earlier and had passed away that morning.
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Jenna announced that Andrew's spirit was 'free, surrounded by light & love'.
She continued: "He went to be with the Lord today, March 4 at 10:50 AM MST. It was peaceful and full of love in the room with Evelyn by his side, his parents and close friends nearby.
"It’s a big loss for all of us, and we’re immensely grateful for your steadfast support and prayers. Throughout all of this, it’s been our heart to stay full of faith, so we wouldn’t look back and wonder “what if…” Thank you for walking in that with us."
Jenna went on to share details of Andrew's final moments, revealing that before he was taken off life support he was moved to a mobile ventilator which allowed his carers to walk with him 'around the whole ICU'.
The sister explained that all the available staff 'lined the hallway as a way to honor him'.
She continued: "Then in the room, friends & family read scripture, prayed, and sang during the process of removing life support and for over an hour afterwards. It was peaceful and beautiful."
Jenna credited Andrew with living life 'to the fullest', adding: "His story & impact isn’t over yet. It’s been wonderful to get to know him in new ways as we’ve seen photos and stories shared by so many. We look forward to more of that as we honor a life well lived."
Andrew's wife, Evelyn Cross, previously told Andrew's supporters that their kindness meant 'the world'.
"We're so grateful to all of you for watching his videos. It's mind-blowing to us that you want to show up and watch them," she said.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].
Topics: Social Media, YouTube, US News
Emily Brown