Deceased Poker Pro Chad Batista Go Fund Me Account is a Scam

The family of deceased poker pro Chad Batista has confirmed that a Go Fund Me account set up in his name is illegitimate.

Go Fund Me accounts are set up in an effort to raise money for individuals and events.  Batista’s family has asked instead that those expressing sympathy send donations to an Orlando boy fighting cancer.

Bautista, 34, was reportedly in declining health, though his death Thursday was said to be “unexpected”.  Details were not immediately revealed.

Batista’s family issued this statement:

"It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, nephew, cousin, brother and friend, Chad 'lilholdem954' Batista. Chad died suddenly this beautiful Thursday afternoon with his family surrounding him. We ask that our privacy be respected at this difficult time and we thank you for your prayers."

Bautista had relocated to Mexico following a series of indictments against online poker sites in April of 2011 commonly known as “Black Friday”.

- Ace King, Gambling911.com