According to several sources who have spoken with TMZ Sports, Former WWE Superstar Ashley Massaro reportedly passed away in an apparent suicide as she was found hanging.
As previously reported, Massaro passed away last Thursday at the age of 39. The report states that she was found unconscious at her home in Smithtown, New York shortly after 5AM ET after she failed to show up for work at a local radio station. She was then taken to a local hospital by first responders and later pronounced dead. She would have turned 40 this coming May 26th and she is survived by one daughter. According to local authorities, Massaro’s death can be classified as non-criminal and foul play was not involved.
TMZ Sports also stated that Massaro is being laid to rest in Suffolk County, New York. According to The New York Post, Massaro’s lawyer told them that her brain may be donated to Dr. Bennet Omalu, who is a professor at The University Of California at Davis known as “The Concussion Doctor.” Omalu researches about CTE, which is a condition associated with multiple head injuries & concussions and he has also previously released findings related to CTE in Pro Football players.
CTE is a condition that can only be confirmed after death. Konstantine Kryos, who is a lawyer that has represented Massaro and other former WWE Superstars in lawsuits against the company, told The Post that he has asked Massaro’s mother and daughter about donating her brain.
Kryos said, “They were a little upset about it.” He even said that there is a little time to make the decision. He then claimed that, “It was Ashley’s wishes to donate her brain.”
Former WWE Superstar CM Punk called The WMGM Radio Show in Atlantic City, New Jersey this past Friday and said that he heard Massaro had taken her life. This was before it was publicly disclosed how she passed away, but there was already speculation circulating online due to social media comments from several people close to Massaro, including Michelle McCool. Punk even begged listeners to get help if they are struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts, as Massaro had.
Punk said, “Tremendously sad way to go.” He continued with, “Thoughts obviously go out to her family, especially her daughter. It’s May. It’s Mental Health Month … if you’re depressed and things aren’t going your way, there’s no reason to feel alone. Just reach out to somebody. Text a friend. Call somebody. There’s hotlines. There’s ways you can get help.”
WWE honored Massaro this past Sunday with a tribute graphic before Money In The Bank went on the air. WWE also issued a statement on her passing last week, saying, “We are saddened to learn of the tragic death of former WWE Superstar Ashley Massaro. She performed in WWE from 2005-2008 and was beloved by her fellow Superstars and fans around the world. WWE offers its condolences to Ashley’s family and friends.”
