MTV Host Sam Sarpong died on Monday after jumping off a bridge, said published reports.
The British-American TV personality and Tommy Hilfiger model who co-hosted MTV's "Yo Mamma" died at 40 of an apparent suicide. Sarpong was the brother of a renowned TV presenter June Sarpong, according to BBC.
"It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away," his family said in a statement via his rep, BBC reported.
"The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation and no additional details are known at this time. ... The family appreciates the thoughts and prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request that privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time."
Sam Sarpong Died Jumping Off A Bridge
According to Pasadena Police Department, an eye-witness informed Police about a man standing outside the bridge railings on Monday morning. The officers and fire-fighters that rushed to the spot reportedly communicated with Sarpong for hours however couldn't stop him jumping to death off the bridge, reported US Magazine.
Police Chief Phillip Sanchez said in a statement that it is troubling to know that some people are so helpless that they feel death is the only option left to end up the troubles. He also noted that such incidents have great impact on families, first-respondents as well as the community as a whole. Sanchez also passed his condolences to Sarpong's family.
June Sarpong Condoles Her Brother Sam Sarpong's Death
''I love my brother very much. Sam was an amazing human being. His passing is a loss for the world,'' said June Sarpong in her statement on her brother's demise, reported Xpose.
"I'd ask anyone who is going through tough times to seek help. Please talk to someone,'' added the TV presenter, urging people to discuss their problems with someone rather than ending up their lives themselves.