Former Jeopardy! contestant Laurin Bell, who competed on the famous quiz show in 2023, has died at the age of 41.
Bell’s loved one Kristen Joyner confirmed the news in a Facebook post Monday, March 24, writing, “It is with a heavy heart that we have to let everyone know Laurin Bell decided to end her life last night.”
“She was a brilliant, funny, and beautiful soul ,” Joyner continued. “Please keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers as they process this loss.”
She also added a plea for someone to “take in” Bell’s dog Kinley, who “was taken to the pound” in Polk County, Florida, after her owner’s death. Joyner noted the canine had “10 days” to find a new home.
Laurin Bell/Facebook
“She is 14 years old and not good with other dogs, but is friendly with everyone and cats. She’s a great companion and needs love,” she wrote alongside several photos of Kinley at home.
Alongside the post, Joyner also shared a photo of the late Bell competing on Jeopardy! and what appeared to be a screenshot of her final post on Facebook, which read, “Well everyone, I’m signing off from life. See you on the other side.”
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A spokesperson for the Florida Medical Examiner’s Office shared in a statement with the Daily Mail that “an autopsy has been performed and toxicology testing is underway.”
PEOPLE has reached out to the Polk County Medical Examiner for more information.
Sony Pictures Television
Bell appeared on Jeopardy! in an episode that aired on Feb. 14, 2023, hosted by Ken Jennings. She and Blaine Smith were the new contestants on the show who competed against the returning champion at the time, Kendra Westerhaus.
Although Bell did not win the game and move on to another episode of the show, she won over viewers with her quick wit and answers during her appearance.
Several people commented on Joyner’s post and paid tribute to Bell online, including one person who wrote, “So sad! Sorry for your loss. Praying for everyone that knew her!”
Another offered their condolences writing, “Praying for comfort and your family.”
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.
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