Melanie Rauscher Dead: 'Naked and Afraid' Star Cause of Death Suicide or Foul Play?
Melanie Rauscher, a contestant on "Naked and Afraid," died under odd circumstances in Arizona, where her body was recently discovered amid cans of dust cleaner. Some say this could be a sign of suicide, while the angle of foul play is still not ruled out. This is because of the circumstances surrounding her death - including the fact that she was doing something so nondescript before she passed away.
According to TMZ, Rauscher, who participated on two seasons of the popular Discovery Channel program, was dog-sitting in Prescott, Arizona while the owners were on vacation, according to Corey Kasun, a representative for the Prescott Police Department.
Kasun stated that upon their return on the afternoon of July 17, the homeowners discovered Melanie dead on the bed in the guest room.
Several cans of compressed air, which can be used to remove computer dust, were reportedly discovered near her body. It is unknown whether Melanie ingested the contents of the cans.
There were no evident signs of foul play, according to the police, and no suicide note or drug paraphernalia was discovered. The dog was unharmed. That said, all these beg to be investigated further.
The Medical Examiner of Yavapai County will establish Melanie's cause of death.
Melanie was primarily a contestant on "Naked and Afraid" in 2013 and its 2015 spin-off, "XL." Jeremy McCaa posted a heartfelt tribute to Melanie on his Facebook page, stating that he was "broken."
Rauscher was just 35, so her death left many reeling, especially those who have worked with her and knew her.
The Philadelphia-born celebrity initially appeared on the "Naked and Afraid" program in 2013 and returned in 2015 for the spin-off series XL. The devastating and startling news left campmates "fallen" as they went to social media to honor the recreation specialist.
Her orbituary gave a final glimpse of the kind of person Rauscher was. According to the piece dedicated to her passing, Mel was a dedicated athlete who is active in local adult leagues. She was an ardent Eagles supporter. She was a natural comedian with unparalleled wit. Melanie's booming laugh will long reverberate in the thoughts and hearts of her loved ones.
Former co-star Jeremy McCaa told his Facebook followers that Rauchser's unexpected death left him "broken."
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