Sudden death in the car: Bodybuilder (†50) dies in front of his son (5)

Melbourne (Australia) - An Australian artist and bodybuilder has died suddenly at the age of 50. His family and friends are in shock - leaving behind a woman who now has to raise her children alone.

Mark Taylor - also known as "MeatAXE" - was on his way to a birthday party with his five-year-old son when he suddenly felt unwell.

Only a short time later, the sporty family man collapsed in his car, as reported by 7News. The cause is still unclear.

"He wasn't feeling well ... and then he was found in the car with the child," recalls Siobhan Duivenvoorden, a close friend of the family.

Despite immediate help from friends and passers-by, his life could not be saved.

Taylor leaves behind his wife Renee and four children. Family and friends are still reeling from the sudden tragedy.

Because she was too far away at the time of his collapse, his wife did not even manage to say goodbye to him.

"He was a great father. They are all in shock and this will last not just weeks, but years," said Duivenvoorden.

The deceased was not only an outstanding athlete, but also very talented artistically.

He was known for his huge murals depicting world-famous personalities such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

In addition to painting, he also worked as a tattoo artist and ran a nutritional supplement business with his wife.

Because Renee is now completely alone with everything, the family friend also started a campaign on gofundme. Over 35,000 euros have already been raised.

"Renee cried about it. I don't think she expected so many people to get involved in this way," explained Duivenvoorden.