Ashley Sawyer Dead: MTV ‘Catfish’ Subject Tragically Dies At 23

So sad. Ashley Sawyer, who appeared on a 2013 episode of MTV's 'Catfish,' has died of unknown causes, a new report claims. She was just 23. Find out all the heartbreaking details here. How tragic -- this is such a sad story. Ashley Sawyer, who appeared on a 2013 episode of MTV's Catfish where she met Michael Fortunato, died of unknown causes, a new report claims. What's even stranger is the fact that Michael also died after their episode aired on TV. Find out more here.

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May 2, 2016 9:52PM EDT
Ashley Sawyer Dead
Image Credit: Courtesy of MTV

“MTV is deeply saddened to learn that Ashley Sawyer has passed away,” MTV told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement on May 2. “Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.”

Ashley appeared on the second season of the MTV hit series after reaching out to hosts Nev Schulman and Max Joseph about meeting Michael. When they actually met, however, they realized they were both catfishing each other. Even so, they were interested in pursuing a relationship.

Sadly, one month after the episode aired, Michael died from a pulmonary embolism at 26.

“The last thing we said to each other was that we loved each other,” Ashley said during a recent catch-up special.

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Ashley’s death may have been drug based, as her sister, Jessica Ross, told MTV News that Ashley recently completed rehab after struggling with addiction.

“We had a great relationship,” Jessica told MTV News. “I know she knows how much I loved her and she loved me, and I am so sad that she’s gone. She was so funny, she could make me laugh on my absolute worst day. She was just a really fun person to be around.”

Our thoughts go out to Ashley’s family and friends during this difficult time.