Chase Filandro, a New York City-based content creator, died on July 31 at the age of 20.
The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed, per People, that he died by suicide.
The Context
Filandro achieved online fame through his comedy skits. The influencer was also a singer in the rock band Just Add Water.
What To Know
Take 2 Actor’s Studio, an acting school in New York that Filandro was linked to, announced his death on August 1.
“It is with profound sorrow that we share the loss of our sweet Chase. He was truly the brightest light!” the statement read. “I will forever miss his smile, his vibrant spirit, and the joy he brought into every room. His presence was a gift, and his absence leaves a hole in our hearts that can never be filled. Love you always, Chasie xo.”
Chase Filandro/Instagram
What People Are Saying
Filandro’s family said in a statement to People: “It was Chase’s own decision to enter Heaven. He was a singer, musician, actor, teacher, artist, poet, and painter. Chase was a beacon of light with a magnetic personality and zest for life that touched everyone he encountered, both in person and online.”
Filandro’s sister, Franki Ford, shared a tribute to him on Instagram on August 4: “My brother, Chase Filandro, was a shining light who had an incredible zest for life. He was loved beyond words by so many and opened his heart to everyone he encountered. Chase was an avid traveler and was moved by the beauty of National Parks. He always welcomed strangers with a smile and made friends along all the trails he traveled on.
“To honor his life and remember his legacy forever, we welcome you to contribute towards a memorial for him to be located at or near one of his favorite parks. Once finalized, we’ll share the details so you can visit and enjoy what Chase loved doing most, knowing he is right alongside you.”
What Happens Next
A GoFundMe has been set up by Filandro’s family in his honor. A description for the fundraiser said the money would go “towards a memorial for him to be located at or near one of his favorite parks.”
In an update, the family later said: “We are overwhelmed with the support for Chase’s memorial. Thank you so much for helping us reach our goal in only 13 hours, Chase clearly had such an impact on many. We are continuing to raise funds to now support the building of an additional memorial in New York that is closer to home. Thank you all again.”
At the time of publication, the GoFundMe had raised over $31,700 from 396 donations.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org