Bear Brown Confirms Brother Matt’s Death: “He Struggled for Years” as Authorities Investigate River Incident

Bear Brown, star of Discovery Channel’s Alaskan Bush People, has publicly confirmed the death of his older brother Matt Brown, 43, whose body was recovered from Washington’s Okanogan River on May 30, 2026. In an emotional social media statement, Bear revealed that Matt “struggled for years” with addiction and personal demons, while Okanogan County authorities continue their investigation into the river incident that claimed his life.

Matt Brown, a longtime cast member of the hit reality series from its early seasons until his abrupt departure in 2019, was found after witnesses reported seeing a man floating face-down in the river near Oroville around May 27. A private search party, joined by younger brother Noah Brown, located and recovered the body after the official search had concluded. The Okanogan County Coroner’s Office ruled the death a suicide, citing a single gunsH๏τ wound to the head, with contributing factors of river immersion and methamphetamine in his system. No evidence of foul play has been found.

Bear’s heartfelt post read: “Matt struggled for years… we tried to help him in every way we could. This is devastating for our family.” Noah ᴀssisted authorities in the positive identification at the scene. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve, while fans and former castmates have flooded social media with tributes to Matt’s adventurous spirit and larger-than-life personality on the show.

The investigation remains open as authorities complete toxicology reports and review witness statements, though the coroner’s ruling is considered definitive. Brown’s Instagram account, active until his disappearance, reflected ongoing battles with mental health and substance abuse. The case has sparked renewed conversation about the pressures faced by reality television stars after leaving the spotlight.

As the Brown family mourns the loss of one of their own, the focus remains on remembering Matt’s contributions to Alaskan Bush People and supporting those still struggling. No memorial details have been announced.