TikTok star Joshua Blackledge’s cause of death has been revealed nearly three months after his death.
Blackledge died by suicide at age 16, per documents obtained exclusively by Us Weekly. While no drug paraphernalia was found at the scene, there was a teddy bear, paper note and a picture discovered. He was found by a family member.
In the docs, his family noted that the influencer had “exhibited behavioral changes” over the past year.
News broke in March that Blackledge died at his home in Newport, North Carolina. “Joshua will be remembered by those who knew him for his enthusiasm and love for life,” an obituary for Blackledge read. “May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.”
A celebration of life service was held later that month for Blackledge’s family and friends. He is survived by his parents and brother Josiah.
“Thank you for the outpouring of love and support for Josh Blackledge’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness is felt deeply and truly makes a difference. ????,” Carteret County Public School Foundation wrote via Instagram alongside a photo of Blackledge.
Blackledge’s last TikTok post days before his death featured clips of him and friends with a white pickup truck. Since his death, users have taken to the comments section to mourn. “Rest in peace Josh, you will be missed,” one user wrote alongside heart and dove emojis.
Rustyn Gambardella, who often appeared in Blackledge’s videos, paid tribute to him in a March TikTok, writing, “Losing a person you view as a brother is one of the worst things I’ve been through. Josh always made me happy being around him and we had so many memories together. He will be greatly missed.”
Blackledge amassed more than 1 million followers on TikTok, sharing lip-syncing and car-related videos. He also had “a passion for the outdoors and loved being around water, whether fishing or boating with friends,” his obituary read.
Blackledge, who was a junior at West West Carteret High School in North Carolina, participated in wrestling and track at school and had a love for cars and trucks.
“At home, Joshua liked helping his mom with cooking, gardening, and yard work,” his obituary read. “He had an energetic spirit and was known for his entertaining nature, often impressing others with backflips.”
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