A Victorian town is rallying behind four children left orphaned after their father reportedly shot their mum before turning the gun on himself.
It's believed Gregory Floyd, 43, took his own life after shooting dead Ora Holt, 39, in a Wangaratta house on Tuesday afternoon.
A witness told police they had earlier seen a man with a rifle and telescopic sight chasing a woman.
The pair are said to have entered their neighbour's house, with two adults and six children leaving unharmed shortly after the firearm was discharged.
Several fundraising pages have been set up to support their four children, aged two to nine, and to pay for funerals.
Ms Holt's cousin, Amy Tsiantas, said she was a "loving mother" and urged people to help the family in any way they could.
"Many of you may know the family or have heard this tragic news which will have a rippling effect throughout the community," Ms Tsiantas said in her gofundme page.
"All money will make its way to the children."
Stephanie Purchase also started a gofundme campaign for the children, which has so far raised almost $13,000 from hundreds of donations.
"It's never going to fill the hole that will fill the children's lives but maybe we can lift some of the stress from grieving family members," she said.
"As a close community, this is our way of banding together and helping those in need. I am so deeply saddened by this, this is the only way I felt I could help."
The page says the money will be used for funerals, food and school costs for the children.
Where to get help
• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youthline: 0800 376 633
• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
