Model Jeff Thomas may have died while attempting to take a selfie on his balcony, his agent claims in a new interview.
Luli Batista of The Sovereign Talent Group told the Daily Mail that she couldn’t believe he would die by suicide and suggested his plunge was a freak accident.
“I just can’t believe it’s true that he intentionally did this,” she said. “He may have fallen while he was taking a selfie.”
Batista said that not even 24 hours prior to his unexpected death they had been texting about an upcoming audition.
He couldn’t wait to tell me about his move to Miami. He seemed thrilled and was proud of himself,” she told the outlet.
“He was happy, motivated and excited for his next step just loving life. I am so stunned. He was such a beautiful and sweet boy.”
Batista’s claims contradict those of the late model’s family, who insinuated he died by suicide after struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
“As you have followed through the years, Jeff traveled the world and lived life to the fullest. What you may not know, is Jeff struggled with addiction and mental health challenges, which ultimately led to his tragic passing,” Jeff’s brother Skylar Ray Thomas shared on Facebook.
The post described Jeff’s struggle as “difficult” but honored his “sense of humor, love for music, art and family.”
Skylar urged those battling similar issues to seek help.
Jeff died March 8 after what local authorities were investigating as a suspected suicide. He was 35. An autopsy was performed, but the results for a conclusive cause of death have yet to be released.
While Jeff’s brother appeared firm in his belief that he died by suicide, Jeff’s cousin Meghan Rae vehemently denied the suggestion.
“This was not a suicide. To report otherwise is a complete disregard to his character and who he was,” she said.
“The information being published is false and defamatory. No further comments will be made by our family. Please respect our privacy and his memory during this difficult time.”
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
