Just months after asking fans to help find her missing brother following a frightening car crash, Shotzi has shared heartbreaking news.
The former WWE star took to Twitter on October 14 to reveal that her brother, Dean, passed away late Sunday night. While she didn’t disclose the cause of his death, Shotzi explained that the last few days have been especially difficult because she’s been away from her family while fulfilling her wrestling commitments.
“Late Sunday night, I lost my brother Dean. Being away from my family these last few days has been hard, but they’ve been so supportive and encouraged me to fulfill my commitments this week.”
Because of the loss, Shotzi also announced that she’s pulling out of next week’s CMLL tour so she can return home, be with her family and honor her brother’s memory. She noted that missing the trip wasn’t an easy decision, especially after being selected to compete in the prestigious CMLL Grand Prix.
“I will, however, need to withdraw from my CMLL tour next week to be with my family and honor my brother’s memory. It was a huge honor to be selected for the CMLL Grand Prix, and I don’t take that opportunity lightly. Thank you to everyone at CMLL and the fans for understanding how hard all this is for me.”
The news comes several months after Dean was reported missing when his car was found crashed near San Francisco’s Fort Mason and Marina District. At the time, security footage showed him walking away from the vehicle, prompting Shotzi to ask the public for help locating him. She later shared the welcome news that he had been found alive and taken to a hospital, thanking fans for helping spread the word during the family’s ordeal.
Now, that story has taken a heartbreaking turn. Instead of preparing for one of the biggest opportunities of her post-WWE career, Shotzi will be spending the coming days with her family as they mourn Dean’s passing.
Our thoughts are with Shotzi, her family and everyone who knew Dean during this incredibly difficult time.