Annabelle Ham, a 22-year-old YouTube star from Atlanta, has died after an “epileptic event.” She had gone missing after a bachelorette party on Saturday in Fairhope, Alabama.
Ham was able to develop a loyal following thanks to her lifestyle and beauty tips. Moreover, the student and vlogger used to share videos about her college life.
Annabelle Ham’s cause of death is not official yet
The family put out a statement about the tragic situation. It reveals: “We’re writing this with heavy, heavy hearts. Annabelle experienced an epileptic event and has gone on to the gates of heaven. She struggled with this for a long time and wanted to raise awareness for it, which we will do in honor of her.”
Authorities were called on Saturday and conducted a search. After finding the body, sources say foul play is not on their radar. However, an official cause of death for Annabelle Ham has not been released.
People on social media started speculating on Saturday after Ham’s older sister, Alexandria, posted a worrisome message on social media.
It reads, “My sister is missing. We have her phone. She might have fallen off pier.”
Family asks for privacy as tributes pour online
However, relatives are asking people for privacy at this time. They write: “Please don’t post or spread speculation or details that are unfounded. There will be a time to share more details and to go deeper into her life. Unnecessary comments only serve to hurt us all, this is a time for remembrance and mourning. Thank you.”
Ham was studying communications at Kennesaw State University in Georgia. Many students have taken to social media to pay tribute to the vibrant young woman.
Followers are also expressing their grief on her Instagram page. One supporter shares, “In shock right now. I’ve watched Annabelle since she was in high school and it felt like watching an older sister. Prayers for you all.”
Ham’s Instagram page has over 74,000 followers. Her family is talking about moving into an advocacy role on her behalf. However, it is not clear what form this will take.
One thing is clear, fans will keep an eye out for whatever the relatives do to keep her memory alive. According to the CDC, close to 3.5 million people in the US deal with epilepsy.