Tragic mystery of Michelle Trachtenberg's death after autopsy choice (2025)

Gossip Girl actress Michelle Trachtenberg, 39, was tragically found dead at her New York City apartment in February, but her heartbroken family have objected to an autopsy

Michelle Trachtenberg's family made a tough decision that means her true cause of death will never be revealed.

This week, authorities in New York confirmed the Buffy The Vampire Slayer star died from complications due to diabetes. A medical examiner concluded the actress passed away from "complications of diabetes mellitus" according to TMZ. The lab results cited in the reveal did not state whether Michelle had type 1 or type 2 diabetes or what the complications were.

And the actual cause of death for Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress will remain a mystery, as her family has officially objected to an autopsy on religious grounds, according to Page Six.

Because of the objection, both the cause and manner of her death will be listed as "undetermined" on her death certificate.

A spokesperson for New York's Office of Chief Medical Examiner explained, "Under public health law, families may object to autopsy based on religious belief, and provided there is no suspicion of criminality or compelling public health reason to proceed with autopsy, the medical examiner honours the objection."

Although medical examiners performed an external examination of the 39-year-old actress, no further tests are expected, leaving the exact circumstances of her untimely passing unknown. However, Trachtenberg's cause of death was classified as 'natural,' medical examiners said in their latest report.

Michelle was tragically found dead at a residential address in New York in February. Authorities said they responded to an emergency call to One Columbus Place in New York and the Euro Trip actress was confirmed dead after emergency medical services arrived.

Prior to her death, Michelle underwent a liver transplant, a procedure often sought out by people who have severe liver issues, with some as a result of long-time alcohol use.

A source revealed to People shortly after her death that the actress had confided in friends about her emotional and physical struggles in the year leading up to her death. "She was really, really sick and was open with those close to her about her struggles," the insider shared. They also described her as appearing "pale, gaunt, and very thin."

Her friend Amanda De Cadenet revealed she spoke to the actress when she was in hospital recently. In an Instagram post, Amanda wrote: “Sweetheart Michelle. What sad news this morning to wake up to. It feels weird and awful to be posting this, but I want to acknowledge your death because I cared about you.

"I will always remember you as the young vivacious woman I met when I took this photo of you …,” De Cadenet said, alongside a photo of a young Michelle posing for the camera. “Seeing your face from the hospital bed when we FaceTimed recently, even though you did not look like you, your sweetness and humour were still alive.”