Former child star Sophie Nyweide, who appeared in famous films such as 'An Invisible Sign' and 'Noah', was found dead on the riverbank in the early morning of April 14.
MZ reported on April 22 that police found Sophie Nyweide's body near a wooden shack by the river in Bennington, Vermont. According to authorities, Sophie did not live in the shack but had gathered with a group of people before her death.
The cause of death of the 24-year-old actress has not been determined as they await the results of an autopsy. Investigators said they have not ruled out the possibility that Sophie was murdered. The autopsy results will be available in 6-8 weeks.
Sophie Nyweide's mother, actress Shelly Gibson, told TMZ that her daughter had used stimulants. "The family is currently saddened and shocked by Sophie's sudden passing," she said.
In an obituary posted on Instagram, the family mentioned the hardships and traumas Sophie Nyweide had experienced: "Sophie was a kind and trusting girl. This often made her vulnerable to others. She wrote and painted passionately, much of her art depicting the depth of her soul and the pain she endured. Many of her works represent her struggles and trauma."
The obituary also mentioned that her family tried to convince Sophie to get help, but she refused: "Those close to her, therapists, authorities, and many others tried to help her. They were saddened that these efforts could not save her from her fate. She self-medicated and kept it inside, which led to this tragedy. She repeatedly said 'I'll handle it myself' and refused treatments that could have saved her life."
However, the family also said that Sophie Nyweide had a happy time on set and showed her acting talent, inherited from her mother. She was described as "creative, healthy and intelligent beyond her years," who achieved much in her short life.
Sophie Nyweide was born in July 2000. She was only 6 years old when she starred in her first major film, Bella. She later appeared in the television series Law & Order and the films And Then Came Love, An Invisible Sign, and Margot at the Wedding. In 2009, Sophie played Michelle Williams' daughter in Mammoth and starred alongside Russell Crowe and Emma Watson in Noah in 2014. Her last appearance was on the show What Would You Do? in 2015.