Sahara Ray's Body Released to Family as Cause of Death Remains Pending

Sahara Ray’s body has been released to her family, but the official cause of death is still pending after autopsy. The Australian model and swimwear designer died in Los Angeles on Oct. 18 at age 34. Reports indicate her death followed a suspected fentanyl overdose, and that she was placed on life support before her family made the decision to take her off it the same day.

Ray welcomed her first child, daughter Snow, in January with Michael Bradley Dow. Before becoming a mom, she was known for dating Justin Bieber and Mod Sun, and as the daughter of surf icon Tony Ray. Her mother Gretchen Gia Bach shared a tribute on Instagram, her sister Ruby Ray called her a force of nature, and close friend Jessica Serfaty said Ray had been struggling with her mental health in recent years and that it was heartbreaking to watch someone they loved experience so much pain.

The story touches several hard conversations at once: the fentanyl crisis, mental health in the influencer world, and a family grieving while the public waits on answers. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to a trusted person or a local support line can help.

What’s the best way to support grieving families when a loss becomes a public story? Sound off in the comments.