Michelle Trachtenberg’s cause of death will remain a mystery as her family has decided not to perform an autopsy.
According to the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Trachtenberg’s family opted not to have an autopsy performed on the 39-year-old actress. An autopsy is required if foul play is suspected but since none is in this case, the examiner is following the family’s choice.
Trachtenberg, the former child star known for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” died Wednesday, Feb. 26. She was 39.
“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away,” her publicist told TheWrap on Wednesday. “The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time.”
Per ABC News, Trachtenberg’s mother found her unresponsive at her New York City apartment early Wednesday morning. Her death is not considered suspicious according to police sources with the New York Post, who was first to report the news. Sources at ABC News added that a recent liver transplant Trachtenberg received might have caused complications.
Outside of her roles in “Buffy” and “Gossip Girl,” Trachtenberg’s other notable works included “Ice Princess,” “EuroTrip,” “Harriet the Spy,” “The Adventures of Pete & Pete,” “17 Again,” “Mercy,” “Mysterious Skin,” “Black Christmas” and “Inspector Gadget.”
A number of Trachtenberg’s former co-stars showed an outpouring of love for the actress – including her “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and on-screen sister Sarah Michelle Gellar.”
“Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world, is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live … for you,” she wrote on Instagram, referencing “Buffy” Season 5, Episode 22 “The Gift.” Her message was accompanied by eight photos of the pair from throughout their time together.
