Mitchell Guist Autopsy: 'Swamp People' Star Died Naturally
Alligator hunter Mitchell Guist from the History Channel's "Swamp People" has died of natural causes, according to an official autopsy report released Thursday.
The 48-year-old Louisiana native died earlier this week in St. Martin Parish. According to Ascension Parish Sheriff Jeff Wiley, local corner Dr. John Fraiche performed the autopsy and determined Guist died of natural causes despite being middle-aged. The reality television star would have turned 49 Friday.
Guist was reportedly out boating along the Bell River when he "fell," according to TMZ. It was believed that he suffered a seizure. Another boater reported the emergency after docking the boat and calling 911.
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Life saving efforts were attempted at the scene until emergency personnel arrived to transport Guist to nearby Teche Regional Hospital, but he had already died.
"Mitchell [passed] on the swamp, doing what he loved," said History Channel spokesperson Vicky Kahn, according to NewsOxy.com.
Brian Catalina, executive producer of "Swamp People," said, "We've lost a really important part of our family and a treasured friend."
Guist appeared in "Swamp People" alongside his brother, Glenn. The show follows people known as Cajuns, who are descendants of French refugees that were forced out of Canada in the 18th century. They are resilient people who settled in the harsh inhospitable lands of American's largest swamp.
On the show, the Guists have endured dangerous storms as well as the challenges presented by floods, damage to their home, and hunger. Recently, Guist had increasingly problems with his health. Fans have mourned their favorite star on the History Channel via Twitter.
"Sad to hear the death of Mitchell Guist from Swamp People," wrote Doug.
"Loved him and Glenn," wrote Steve in response to the news of Guist's death.
"Swamp People" airs on the History Channel Thursdays at 9 p.m. EST. The reality show set in Louisiana has entered its third season.
