Three months after his untimely demise, the heartbreaking cause of Joshua Blackledge's passing has come to light. According to documents procured by Us Weekly, the 16-year-old social media influencer took his own life on March 18. The solemn discovery was made at his residence in Newport, North Carolina, by a grieving family member, who found alongside the scene a poignant teddy bear, a heartfelt paper note, and a poignant photograph. Notably absent from the premises were any traces of drug paraphernalia, though his family did share that Joshua had displayed concerning behavioral shifts over the preceding year.
E! News reached out to the local authorities and the coroner’s office for further comment, but as of yet, no response has been received.
Prior to his tragic end, Joshua had garnered an impressive following of over a million adherents on TikTok. Four days before his passing, he had posted a video showcasing a sleek white pickup truck, a testament to his penchant for sharing glimpses into his high school life. His videos, filled with moments of automotive revelry, camaraderie with friends, and lip-syncing to tunes, encapsulated his vibrant spirit.
Noe-Brooks Funeral Home's obituary, released shortly after his demise, painted a vivid picture of Joshua's life as a junior in high school, where he actively participated in wrestling and track events. "His heart beat for the outdoors, where he found joy in fishing and boating with his friends, and he harbored a deep affection for cars and trucks," the obituary read. "Within the confines of his home, Joshua delighted in assisting his mother with cooking, gardening, and yard work. His energetic demeanor and penchant for entertainment, often demonstrated through breathtaking backflips, left a lasting impression on all who met him."
"Joshua will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to know him for his infectious enthusiasm and boundless love for life," the obituary continued. "May his memory serve as a source of solace to all who mourn his loss."
