Home / Crime and Justice / US man accused of con artistry dies in NZ
US man accused of con artistry dies in NZ
21 Feb
Summary
- Douglas Ruch died in Auckland, New Zealand, on December 18.
- Ruch was accused of being a serial conman just before his death.
- His cause of death remains undetermined by authorities.
Douglas Lee Ruch, a 56-year-old US citizen, passed away in Auckland, New Zealand, on December 18, months after embarking on a "Dying to Serve" tour. His death occurred the day after an article detailed allegations of him being a serial conman. Ruch had previously raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through GoFundMe campaigns, claiming to have terminal cancer and a desire to help non-profit organizations.
Despite Ruch's insistence on his cancer diagnosis and charitable work, investigations revealed numerous past GoFundMe campaigns for various purposes, some suggesting a pattern of deceit. He refused to share medical records, stating he didn't owe anything to his critics. Authorities in both the US and New Zealand confirmed his death, but his cause of death has not yet been determined.
Further reports highlighted that Ruch had traveled to Australia and New Zealand for purported volunteer work, funded by separate GoFundMe campaigns. His family in the US has largely remained silent, with one estranged relative stating that everything needed is public record.
