This weekend, Modern Family actor Sarah Hyland announced on social media that her 14-year-old cousin Trevor had been killed in a car accident allegedly caused by a drunk driver.
Hyland wrote that her uncle, who was in the car with Trevor at the time, was still in hospital awaiting further surgery. She also shared a link to a GoFundMe page the family set up to help pay for Trevor's funeral expenses.
Yesterday my 14 year old cousin was killed by a drunk driver named Jeffrey Eggerling. My Uncle is in the hospital awaiting more surgeries. PLEASE keep your prayers with my family during this horrific time. And please DONATE https://t.co/mwlaIvUYrs
But among the many comments of support and condolences from Sarah's fans were a few people who said she should use her own money to pay for the funeral.
On Monday, Hyland tweeted asking the people who had "negative thoughts or opinions" about her post to "keep them to themselves".
I’d like to ask those who have negative thoughts or opinions about the tragedy that happened to my family, to keep them to themselves. You don’t know all the details. And how dare you attack when a beautiful life has been lost.
However, people continued to share their opinions in the replies.
And yesterday Sarah announced she had decided to temporarily leave social media after being subjected to "horrible negative ignorant words".
You guys finally did it. Your horrible negative ignorant words have broken me. Happy? Staying offline for a while. I have a special announcement and video releasing on Wednesday I believe. So. There’s that. ✌🏼
One person pointed out that Sarah — who was hospitalised with a chronic kidney condition earlier this year and had a kidney transplant back in 2012 — probably has her own medical expenses to pay for.
@Sarah_Hyland To the jerks out there. Sarah has her own medical condition to pay for. Just because you think she has all this money doesn't mean she does. A 14 yr old died and ya'll are going off on his family. Think before you speak.
While many others shared messages of love and support.
@Sarah_Hyland I can’t fathom how people could be so unkind during such a difficult time.The world we live in is truly a broken place. We need a lot more compassion & love to put back the pieces. Thank you for being one of them. Your kind heart is truly something special.💜
@Sarah_Hyland People need to learn how to be compassionate! Her family and herself are already going through a difficult time. How would you feel if it was someone you loved? Back off
@Sarah_Hyland Please keep in mind that there are many of us who absolutely adore you