Nearly three months after the heartbreaking loss of 16-year-old TikTok star Joshua Blackledge, his official cause of death has been confirmed.

The teen — who amassed over 1 million followers for his humor, charm, and relatable content — died by suicide on March 18 at his home in Newport, North Carolina. He was found by a family member, according to reports.

At the scene, Joshua left behind a handwritten note, a photograph, and a teddy bear — silent echoes of a young life in pain. Medical examiner documents confirmed he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

In the months leading up to his death, the beloved high school junior showed noticeable behavioral and academic changes, according to the official report. However, there was no evidence of drug use or paraphernalia.

Joshua was a student at West Carteret High School in Morehead City, where he actively participated in wrestling and track. Friends and teachers described him as bright, dedicated, and full of promise — a vibrant personality who brought energy to both the classroom and the sports field.

His sudden passing sent shockwaves through both the online creator community and his local school, where grief counselors were made available in the days following his death.

Joshua’s story is a sobering reminder of the silent struggles many teens face behind the screen — even those who appear to have it all. In honoring his memory, conversations around mental health, especially among young creators, have taken on renewed urgency.