Earlier today, New York City Police confirmed that the body found in the East River last night was indeed that of Desmond Amofah, also known as Etika.

[Content Warning: Suicide]

Etika had been missing for the past six days, having earlier posted a now-deleted video detailing his suicidal thoughts and depression. The Nintendo Enthusiast and Streamer has had fans concerned since last October, when he sabotaged his popular YouTube channel by uploading explicit videos. Stays in mental hospitals, and a live-streamed suicide attempt in April which involved police intervention, had many fearing the worst when he was reporting missing and later had his belongings discovered alone on Manhattan Bridge.

It is believed he took his own life.

Etika was born in 1990, in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Born to Ghanian politician, Owuraku Amofah (whose relative would later be elected that country’s president), Etika grew up with an interest in gaming and rap culture. He pursued his interest in rap, and did some modelling work, but it was his gaming habits that catapulted him to stardom.

Recording primarily Nintendo titles since 2012, Etika gained a substantial following over the years, primarily known for his over-the-top reactions, erratic behaviour, and fascination with death. His growing fanbase attracted the interest of a management company and advertising firms, as well as YouTube figures like Keemstar, with whom he had several feuds.

One of the Nintendo fan’s final streams before the incident was an excited reaction to the Banjo-Kazooie reveal for Smash. His loss was addressed publicly by YouTube’s Creator Twitter, in an unusual move for the company. He is remembered fondly by his family, friends, and fans.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal or depressive tendencies, know that you are not alone, and that you can be heard. Contact one of the numbers below for help dealing with these issues.

USA: 1800 2738255
UK: 08 457 909 090
Ireland: 44 08 457 909 090
Australia: 131 114
New Zealand: 08 0054 3354

A list of other country’s help lines may be found here.