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Katherine Hartley Short, the 42-year-old daughter of beloved actor and comedian, has died.
A spokesperson for Martin Short confirmed Tuesday that she passed away, adding that the family is "heartbroken beyond words" and requesting privacy as they mourn.
Authorities were called to her home in the Hollywood Hills on Monday evening after reports of a shooting.
Emergency crews arrived shortly after 6:40 p.m., according to officials, and a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
The death is being investigated as an apparent suicide, law enforcement sources told TMZ.
Born on Dec. 3, 1983, Katherine devoted much of her life to supporting others through mental health work.
She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006, then completed a master's in social work at the University of Southern California in 2010.
Colleagues said she worked in private practice and with community-based programs focused on psychotherapy and dual-diagnosis care.
She also supported Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization dedicated to challenging stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental illness among young people.
Although she largely remained outside the spotlight, Katherine occasionally joined her father at public events and milestone celebrations.
Friends described her as compassionate, thoughtful and deeply committed to her clients' well-being.
She is survived by her father, along with brothers Oliver and Henry.
In a brief statement, the family said her warmth, intelligence and dedication to helping others will be remembered by all who knew her.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Support is available 24/7, and trained counselors provide confidential, free assistance nationwide. Those seeking resources can also visit 988lifeline.org for chat options and additional information.
The family has not announced details regarding memorial arrangements, reiterating their request for privacy during this difficult time.
They asked that the public keep Katherine's memory close and extend compassion to all families facing unimaginable loss and grief.
