A BODYBUILDER dubbed MeatAXE has tragically died while taking his 5-year-old son to a birthday party.
Beloved muscleman and street artist Mark Taylor, 50, died suddenly on Saturday evening.
The sportsman, from Melbourne, Australia, was seen slumped inside his car and witnesses urgently raised the alarm.
He suffered a medical emergency while driving his young son to a celebration.
Taylor, a father-of-four, had celebrated his fourth wedding anniversary with his wife Renee just days before his death.
Renee desperately drove to her husband and son on Saturday, from a retreat she led three hours away.
Despite efforts from paramedics to save his life, Taylor died before his wife could arrive at the scene.
A heartbreaking statement shared on his Instagram account confirmed the tragic news.
The post said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of The MeatAXE – Mark Taylor.
“A devoted father, husband and friend. An artist whose legacy and love will forever live on.”
The family shared another heartbreaking message on a GoFundMe page set up to help with funeral and childcare costs.
This message said: “Mark suddenly passed away, leaving his wife, Renee, and the four children in shock & devastation.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”HULK TRAGEDY Bodybuilder dies aged 38 leaving influencer’s legions of fans ‘heartbroken'” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6368432218112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]“His loss has left an irreplaceable void in their lives, and they are now facing an unimaginable reality without him.”
Taylor was a competitive bodybuilder for many years and was a street artist since he was a teenager.
He was globally recognised for his street art and murals.
His fans and friends paid tribute to the sportsman on his Instagram page.
Fellow bodybuilder Mike Hulusi said: “Will always support you guys and celebrate marks legacy.”
Another message said: “It’s truly shocking, and far too young.
“Mark was an amazing man and will be missed more than words can express.
“Our hearts go out to Renee and the family during this incredible painful time.”
A third person said: “R.I.P big guy , can’t believe it .. may your memory live on through your murals.”
