BREAKING: Legendary Comedian Martin Short's Daughter Dies From A Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound

The daughter of Hollywood funnyman Martin Short has died in heartbreaking circumstances.

Katherine Short, 42, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at her Hollywood Hills home on Monday evening, according to law-enforcement sources. Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department and the fire department were called to the scene shortly after 6.40pm PT, though it remains unclear who placed the 911 call. The death was first reported by TMZ.

In a statement released to People, a representative for the family said: “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”

Katherine was the adopted daughter of Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010 after 30 years of marriage. Born on December 3, 1983, she largely stayed out of the public eye despite her father’s global fame, appearing only occasionally at events alongside him. She was the eldest of Short’s three children.

According to her website, Katherine dedicated her life to helping others. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from New York University before completing a master’s degree in social work at University of Southern California. She went on to work as a social worker in Los Angeles and was also involved with the mental-health charity Bring Change 2 Mind, which campaigns to end the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Despite her quiet life away from the spotlight, those who knew her described Katherine as warm, compassionate and deeply committed to making a difference—traits reflected in the moving tribute released by her family.