Connor Murphy, a popular American fitness influencer with over 2.3 million YouTube subscribers, tragically died in a drowning accident in Thailand, as reported by various local news outlets.
Authorities informed media sources such as Bangkok Post and Thairath that they received calls regarding a man behaving erratically in the Bang Phli area of Samut Prakan province. Upon arrival, police reported that the individual jumped into a lake located in a village noted for its luxury resorts. Eyewitness accounts indicated that he continued swimming until he appeared to tire and subsequently vanished beneath the surface.
Rescue divers spent 30 minutes searching for him before recovering his body and transporting it to the hospital, according to the publications. An autopsy is set to take place.
A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department confirmed to CBC News that an American citizen had died in Samut Prakan on July 7 and stated that they were providing consular support to the family. However, they did not disclose Murphy’s name.
Tributes from friends
At 32 years old, Murphy was engaged in an online community of young men referred to as “looksmaxxers,” who focus on enhancing their appearance, often resorting to surgical procedures and self-harm.
Another influencer, known online as Jon Skywalker Brannon, honored Murphy in an Instagram post.
“I will always think of you as the young guy who emerged in this field alongside me; thrust into a toxic industry and the harsh glare of social media without any guidance or mentorship,” he expressed.
“Only God knows the mental and emotional burdens you shouldered over the years… the expectations and pressures placed upon you by millions who only glimpsed one side of your life.”
Concerns regarding Murphy’s mental health
Thai media has interviewed the owner of the nearly million-dollar luxury lakeside property that Murphy was renting at the time of his passing.
The owner revealed to the outlets that the residence had been damaged, with paint splattered across the walls and appliances. Additionally, furniture and decor were reportedly destroyed, she stated.
Local news sources also reported that investigators who examined the deceased’s car discovered two unused syringes and several unidentified white pills.
Patrick Lyons, an online fitness coach, shared several photos with Murphy on Instagram. In his caption, he mentioned that Murphy had been using an “illicit, extremely potent drug in 2020.”
“This led to a psychotic episode that transformed Connor into a person quite different from the one I once knew,” Lyons wrote. “Among the many delusions he experienced, he believed he was God.”
Lyons also noted in his post that he severed ties with Murphy around six years ago, expressing hope that his late friend’s passing would “serve as a further warning against drug use, whether it be PEDs [performance-enhancing drugs] or hallucinogens.”
CBC News was unable to verify the claims of drug use.
The investigation into his death remains active.
