An official update from the New York City medical examiner’s office sheds light on what may have contributed to the sudden death of the “Gossip Girl” star.

After actress Michelle Trachtenberg was found dead in a New York City apartment on February 26, 2025, officials have confirmed the cause of her death. The announcement has drawn widespread reaction online, especially from those familiar with the condition involved.

On Wednesday, April 16, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed to People that Trachtenberg, 39, died due to complications from diabetes mellitus. Her death was ruled natural.

A spokesperson for the office stated that the conclusion was reached after reviewing toxicology results, adding, “toxicology testing can be done without autopsy.”

The confirmation quickly sparked reactions on social media. One commenter wrote, “See this is scary…her having money for medications n things for her diabetes…what complications could there have been…I would like to know bcuz I am a diabetic myself… [sic]”

Another expressed doubt, “That does not sound right; she’s way too young to be dying from diabetes complications. Diabetes is a blood disease and health does not decline until patients are overweight and older — uncontrolled diabetics have heart attacks and strokes, heartkidneys [sic] fail, etc.”

Some speculated about the circumstances. “Ozempic cover up probably,” one skeptic remarked.

Others emphasized the seriousness of the condition. Someone else posted, “Diabetes at a young age this is more serious than we ever fought. Prayers to the family of Michelle Trachtenberg once again.”