"With immeasurable sorrow, we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short, a brilliant light that has dimmed far too early. The Short family is in a state of profound grief, and we kindly request privacy during this difficult time. Katherine was cherished by all who knew her, and she will be forever remembered for the joy and positivity she brought into the world," the family shared in a statement to PEOPLE.
On Monday, February 23rd, the Los Angeles Fire Department received a call regarding a female at a Hollywood Hills residence at 6:41 p.m. The coroner of Los Angeles has confirmed to PEOPLE that Katherine's death was a result of suicide. TMZ was the first to break the news.
Katherine was adopted by Martin and his late wife of 30 years, Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. The couple shared two other children through adoption, Oliver Patrick, 39, and Henry Hayter, 36.
Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice and also part-time at Amae Health clinic, where she provided community outreach, family support groups, peer support, and psychotherapy. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006 and went on to obtain her master's in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.
Although Katherine preferred to keep a low profile, she did attend a few events with her father over the years, including the after-party for The Producers in 2003 and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in February 2011. Her presence at these events was a testament to her warm personality and her love for her father's work. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
