COLLEGEDALE — A GoFundMe campaign established to support Kian Neal, 18, was removed from the platform. Neal is charged in Collegedale, Tennessee, with the murder of 56-year-old Robert George Locke.

Neal's parents confirmed the removal, stating, "Unfortunately, we have discovered that GoFundMe does not allow for fundraisers involving alleged violent crimes, even if the case/trial is ongoing." They also said, "All donations will be refunded." The parents expressed gratitude, stating, "A heartfelt thank you to all who donated."

The initial campaign stated, "Our dear son, Kian Neal, is only 18 years old and has his whole life ahead of him." It further stated, "Recently, our family was devastated when Kian was arrested on homicide charges." The campaign text read, "As parents, we are doing everything we can to support him, but we simply do not have the resources to pay for the legal defense he desperately needs." It specified that the funds raised would go "directly toward Kian's attorney fees, court costs, and all other expenses related to his legal defense." The campaign stated, "We want to ensure that Kian has the best possible chance to defend himself and that he receives fair treatment throughout this process." It also noted, "The situation has left us feeling overwhelmed and heartbroken, but we are determined to fight for Kian and bring him home."

Police reported that Neal has confessed to the crime. Authorities conducted a search for a body in the county landfill, but that search was subsequently called off.