- Drew Berquist - https://www.drewberquist.com -

Former WWE Star Shad Gaspard Found Dead at 39 After Going Missing While Swimming off Coast of Los Angeles

Earlier this week, we reported [1] that former WWE star Shad Gaspard had gone missing while swimming with his 10 year-old son off of a newly-opened beach in Venice Beach, California. Now, we are sorry to say that Gaspard has been found dead at 39.

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to Fox News [2] on Wednesday that a body that had been found early this morning near Venice Beach was indeed the 39 year-old Gaspard. The former pro wrestler had been swimming with his 10-year-old son, Aryeh on Saturday when they and other swimmers found themselves caught in a strong rip current. Aryeh was thankfully rescued and returned safely to shore, but Gaspard could not be saved in time.

“When last seen by the lifeguard, a wave had crashed over Mr. Shad Gaspard and he was swept out to sea,” the LAPD said in a statement on Monday. Police added that Gaspard was last seen about 50 yards from shore.

Gaspard’s wife Siliana had released a statement on Tuesday, before her husband’s body was found, thanking rescue officials for their efforts.

“We would like to express our gratitude to the first responders who rescued Aryeh and to the lifeguards, coast guard, divers, fire and police departments for their continued efforts to help find our beloved Shad,” Siliana said. “Shad is a fighter, a warrior and a magical soul. We are hoping and praying for his safe return. As a family we thank you all for your concern and well wishes. Please continue to keep sending your positivity and prayers to our beloved Shad.”

Gaspard found success in the WWE as one half of the tag team group Cryme Time, along with his partner, JTG. He left the WWE in 2010 to launch an acting career, nabbing various small roles in film and television, most notably in Kevin Hart’s 2015 film Get Hard.

Gaspard is survived by his wife Siliana, who he had been married to since 2009, and their son Aryeh.

This piece originally appeared in UpliftingToday.com [11] and is used by permission.

Read more at UpliftingToday.com:
Chilling Last Words of South Carolina Woman Before She Was Killed by Alligator – ‘I Guess I Won’t Do This Again’ [12]
Prince Harry Sells His Beloved Hunting Rifles to Please Meghan Markle [13]
Elderly Married Couple Aged 86 and 85 are Gunned Down In Delaware Veterans Cemetery [14]