Neighbors described Martin Short’s daughter, Catherine, as friendly yet often reserved.
She tragically passed away on Monday in what appears to be a suicide. TMZ reported that she was found dead at her residence in Hollywood Hills, California, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A neighbor who works as a social worker mentioned that Catherine was a “great neighbor and gardener” and expressed how “incredibly sad” her death was.
Another neighbor shared that Catherine was “very nice,” tended to keep to herself, and didn’t host loud parties.
A third neighbor noted that while Catherine would occasionally wave “hello” from her porch, they didn’t really interact much.
Short’s representative confirmed the devastating news on Tuesday, noting that she was 42 years old.
“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Catherine Hartley Short,” the statement read. “The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was loved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought to the world.”
Katherine was the eldest child of the “Bill Murder” star and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who lost her battle with ovarian cancer in August 2010. The couple had three children together: Catherine and her brothers, Oliver (39) and Henry (36).
Despite being quite private about her life, Katherine attended multiple public events with her father, including red carpet appearances. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006, followed by a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010. She was also active with Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization dedicated to reducing the stigma around mental health.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
