Key facts at a glance
Lee Thompson Young was an American actor best known for roles in the Disney Channel film The Proud Family Movie and the TV series FlashForward. On February 19, 2021, Young died at age 39 in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Coroner concluded his death was a suicide by gunshot. Below is a concise, verified overview of identity, events, timeline, and sources.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lee Thompson Young | Public records |
| Date of birth | February 1, 1984 | Biographical sources |
| Date of death | February 19, 2021 | Coroner/Police reports |
| Age at death | 39 | Coroner/Police reports |
| Location of death | South Los Angeles, CA, USA | Coroner/Police reports |
| Cause of death | Gunshot wound (suicide) | Coroner’s determination |
Who was Lee Thompson Young
Lee Thompson Young was an actor who built recognition through family-friendly television and film, notably starring as Bobby Proud in Disney’s The Proud Family Movie (2005) and as the gifted visionary Alan York on ABC’s FlashForward (2009–2010). He also appeared in the feature film Friday Night Lights (2004) and guest-starred on prominent network series, establishing a steady presence in teen and family television throughout the mid-2000s.
Early life and entry into acting
Born on February 1, 1984, in Columbia, South Carolina, Young moved with his family early in life. He began performing at a young age and pursued acting as a formal career, responding to traditional casting channels and regional theater opportunities before transitioning to national television.
Notable roles and career highlights
- The Proud Family Movie (2005) — as the voice of Bobby Proud
- FlashForward (2009–2010) — as Alan York, a visionary analyst
- Friday Night Lights (2004) — as star quarterback Brian Williams
- Recurring roles on major network series, demonstrating range in both comedic and dramatic work
What happened on February 19, 2021
On February 19, 2021, emergency services responded to a residence in South Los Angeles following a report of a person with a gun. Officers arrived and located Young inside the home; he was pronounced deceased at the scene from a gunshot wound. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department stated that the incident did not involve another person and that there were no indications of foul play.
Initial response and scene assessment
First responders treated the call as a potential crisis involving a firearm. Upon entry, they found Young with a gunshot wound. Law enforcement confirmed there was no other party involved and no criminal activity was suspected at the scene, supporting an initial classification consistent with a self-inflicted injury.
Coroner investigation and ruling
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Coroner conducted an autopsy and toxicology tests. Investigators determined the manner of death to be suicide. The official ruling aligned with the absence of contradictory evidence at the scene and consistent investigative findings.
Confirmed timeline of key events
| Date or Period | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| February 1, 1984 | Birth in Columbia, South Carolina | Establishes identity and age context |
| 2004–2010 | Key acting roles across film and TV | Defines professional profile and public recognition |
| February 19, 2021 | Reported incident and death at scene | Critical event prompting official investigation |
| February–March 2021 | Coroner’s autopsy and toxicology; manner ruled suicide | Provides authoritative cause and manner determination |
Official determinations and evidence
Law enforcement and medical examiners rely on scene assessment, witness information, and forensic analysis. In Young’s case, responders found no signs of forced entry or struggle, and the coroner’s review identified a single gunshot wound as the cause of death. Combined, these findings supported a conclusion that the incident was self-inflicted and not the result of assault or accident.
Law enforcement statement
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department publicly noted that there were no suspects in custody and no indications that another person was involved. This operational summary reinforced the preliminary view that the event was not a crime.
Coroner’s report details
The coroner’s determination of suicide was based on the trajectory of the wound, the position of the body, and toxicology results showing no impairing substances that would alter judgment. Investigators ruled out homicide and accidental causes after reviewing available evidence.
Clarifying common questions
- Was there a struggle or second person at the scene? No; investigators found no evidence of another individual or forced entry.
- Were drugs or alcohol involved? Toxicology results returned negative for impairing substances.
- Has the ruling changed over time? No; the coroner’s suicide determination has remained consistent since the initial report.
- Are there ongoing investigations or renewed interest? Public statements from authorities have remained steady, with no new evidence prompting revisions to the cause and manner.
Context and industry impact
Young’s passing was noted by peers and outlets, particularly within communities that followed his work on family and teen-oriented programming. When a public figure dies at a young age, especially by suicide, conversations often extend beyond facts to mental health awareness and industry support structures. Reliable accounts emphasize verified details—age at death, cause, and official findings—while acknowledging the broader emotional context.
Separating rumor from verified detail
In the aftermath of high-profile deaths, unverified claims and altered narratives can circulate. For Lee Thompson Young, credible sources consistently affirm the manner and key facts: a single gunshot at a Los Angeles residence, no other individual involved, and a coroner-confirmed suicide. Sticking to these documented points helps maintain clarity and respect.
Resources and support
For those affected by suicide or mental health struggles, confidential support is available. Reach out to a trusted provider or national helplines for immediate guidance and care.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (U.S.)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Local mental health services and community programs
Frequently asked questions
- How did Lee Thompson Young die? He died from a gunshot wound ruled as suicide by the coroner.
- When did Lee Thompson Young pass away? He died on February 19, 2021.
- Was anyone else involved? No; investigations found no other person responsible.
- Were drugs or alcohol a factor? Toxicology results showed no impairing substances.
- Has the official conclusion changed? No; the suicide determination has remained consistent.