More information has come in about the comedian, writer and show creator Kevin Barnett, who passed away suddenly on Jan. 22 while on vacation in Tijuana, Mexico. He was 32 years old.
The cause of death was previously unknown, but after an autopsy the Forensic Medical Service of Tijuana told E! News that Barnett died from a “Non-Traumatic Hemorrhage, caused by pancreatitis.”
“His body is still in facilities of the Forensic Medical Service of Tijuana,” they added. “Waiting to be delivered to his family members who are performing the legal proceedings.”
Barnett made a name for himself in the New York City comedy circuit and was the co-creator of the Fox comedy series “Rel,” starring Lil Rel Howery, which they both created with Josh Rabinowitz.
Barnett also worked as a consulting producer and writer for the NBC sitcom “The Carmichael Show,” wrote for Comedy Central’s “Broad City, “The Eric Andre Show” on Adult Swim and was in Chris Rock’s 2015 film “Top Five.”
On Wednesday (Jan. 23,) Rel posted a photo of Barnett and said he was at a complete loss for words over the news.
“I was trying to figure out what to say but I can’t,” he wrote. “I’m truly heartbroken by this and just really hurt as the hours pass. So gifted and so dope and a true friend!!!! I don’t know what else to say this is crazy to me.”
Rel also posted a photo of himself and Barnett the day they sold the “Rel” series to Fox. “The Carmichael Show’s” Jerrod Carmichael is in the photo as well.
“I’m glad I was able to tell Kevin how much I love and appreciate him,” wrote Rel on Wednesday.
Carmichael also sent a message. “Our condolences goes out to the family and friends of comedian #kevinbarnett! Rest easy,” he wrote.
