Hollywood comedian Martin Short is mourning the loss of his daughter, Katherine, who was found dead at the age of 42. Representatives for the 75-year-old confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement to the Daily Mail. It read: "It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world."

According to reports, the Los Angeles Police Department responded to Katherine's residence in Hollywood on Monday at around 6pm. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department told the Mail that crews responded to a call at the address at 6.41pm. However, they declined to identify the individual involved for privacy reasons.

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Celebrity news website TMZ has reported that Katherine died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound; however, an official cause of death has yet to be confirmed.

Katherine was one of the three children adopted by Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away in 2010 following a cancer battle.

Katherine, who received a degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from NYU in 2006, as well as a Master's Degree in social work, worked as a social worker in Los Angeles.

She was part of the non-profit organisation Bring Change To Mind, which aims to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Tributes have been flooding in for Katherine, with one fan writing on X: "We send hugs to Martin Short and his family as his daughter, Katherine, has sadly passed away." Another shared: " My thoughts are with Marty and his family."

A third added: "This is so heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to Martin Short and his family during this unimaginable time." Meanwhile, a fourth penned: "Martin Short has been through so much already. Sending love and prayers to the family during this unimaginable pain. Rest in peace, Katherine."

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