YouTuber Desmond “Etika” Amofah Passes Away at 29

Desmond Amofah, better known as Etika, has passed away by apparent suicide. The famous gaming YouTuber was only 29 years old.

We regret to inform that Desmond Amofah aka Etika has been found deceased. https://t.co/sedwZZxglw

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) June 25, 2019

NYPD has confirmed that Amofah’s body was found in Manhattan’s East River. Police discovered Amofah’s belongings on the Manhattan bridge two days ago. A 911 came in late last night after someone spotted a body in the river. An NYPD representative released the contents of the 911 call to Kotaku:

“At approximately 18:18 hours [yesterday], police responded to a 9-1-1 call with a person floating in the water in the vicinity of the South Street Seaport in the confines of the 1st Precinct. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unresponsive, unidentified male at that location. The NYPD harbor removed the male to Pier 16, where EMS pronounced him deceased. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death and the investigation is ongoing.”

Desmond Amofah started his YouTube channel in 2012. Etika’s channel(s) amassed over 800,000 followers who loved his gaming material. Amofah gained a following utilizing both YouTube and Twitch, becoming known for commenting on popular Nintendo games.

The YouTube star’s struggle with mental health became known to his fans and the industry last October. Amofah had deleted his YouTube channel but posted an alarming post about suicidal thoughts on Reddit.

Amofah was also detained by police this past April after apparently threatening suicide in his apartment. The YouTuber underwent several mental health visits to the hospital thereafter. Fans far and wide had grown increasingly worried about his health. Amofah posted final words in what could be interpreted as a cry for help to fans. YouTube took the video down, but it wasn’t before it circulated far and wide. In the video, Amofah simply stated:

“It was a fun life. I had a great time. It was great. But for it to be cut so short – it’s f**ked”

Friends and family had tried to reach Amofah since the posting of the video. It’s a tragic loss of life and highlights the importance of mental health issues today. An outpouring of support for the late star began almost immediately. Friends and family alike are celebrating his life.

If you or someone you love is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevent Lifeline. All it takes is one person to reach out a helping hand.  Furthermore, you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to reach out when in need.