YouTube star Etika, whose real name is Desmond Amofah, has been found dead. Etika had previously been reported missing in New York City after concerning family, friends, and fans by posting a suicidal video on Twitter. Etika was found on Tuesday, June 25.
The 29-year-old was last heard from on Wednesday, June 19 by phone.
Etika’s wallet and ID were found on the Manhattan bridge after the video was posted. His body was found floating in the East River off of Pier 16 in Lower Manhattan, according to a New York police spokesperson.
An official cause of death has not been announced at this time.
The New York Police Department had previously responded to Etika’s apartment in April due to a possible suicide threat. Etika had live-streamed the incident with police which became heated.
Prior to his disappearance, Etika had posted a suicidal message on social media.
“I’m sorry for leaving such a stained legacy,” he said, as transcribed by the New York Post. “I hope that my story maybe helps to make YouTube a better place in the future where people know boundaries and limits and how far things should go.
“You know I wasn’t suicidal before — I really wasn’t. But one thing I didn’t realize was that the walls were closing around me so fast. I really had no intention of killing myself but I’d always push it too far. I guess I am mentally ill.”
He later added: “You can’t help somebody who doesn’t want to help themselves. It’s not y’all’s fault, I don’t want you to blame yourselves. It’s all my fault.”
Our deepest condolences are with Etika’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
