The reality TV star has been confirmed dead after authorities recovered his body in Washington state. As his family mourns the loss, official records and new developments are shedding light on the events surrounding his disappearance.A witness’s 911 call set off the search that ultimately led to the discovery of “Alaskan Bush People” star Matthew “Matt” Brown’s body in Washington state.Now, with Brown’s official cause of death confirmed, the call is drawing renewed attention to the events that unfolded before he was found.The 43-year-old’s death was confirmed by the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office (OCCO) on May 31, 2026, days after a search began near Oroville.According to the sheriff’s office, a group of private citizens searching along the Okanogan River found a deceased individual on May 30. After recovering the body and bringing it to shore, authorities positively identified the individual as Matt.Matt’s body has since been transferred to the custody and care of the Okanogan County Coroner.
As officials continue investigating the circumstances surrounding Matt’s death, his family has begun sharing details about the devastating days leading up to the discovery.Bear Brown Shares a Painful Family UpdateFollowing the confirmation, Matt’s brother, Bear Brown, addressed the news in a TikTok video. “They found a body in the river a few hours ago and it was positively identified as being Matt,” Bear said.He also shared a heartbreaking detail about their younger brother Noah Brown’s role in the recovery. According to Bear, Noah was the first family member to see Matt after the body was recovered.”Noah helped them pull the body out of the water and Noah identified [Matt],” Bear said.Bear also spoke about what he believes may have happened, while making clear that the coroner still had to examine Matt’s body.I would’ve never thought that Matt would hurt himself. It does look as though it was self-inflicted,” Bear said in his TikTok video.He added that Matt had struggled with alcohol and drug addiction, along with other private issues. He asked fans to be respectful and avoid negative comments as the family mourns.
