Martin Short Daughter Cause of Death Confirmed: Katherine Hartley Short Dies by Suicide at 42
Feb. 25, 2026 — Los Angeles
Katherine Hartley Short, eldest daughter of actor Martin Short, died at age 42 on Feb. 23, 2026, in her Hollywood Hills home, with the martin short daughter cause of death ruled a suicide by self-inflicted gunshot wound by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a radio call of a possible suicide attempt around 6:43 p.m., where they found the deceased female at the location, according to an LAPD spokesperson. The Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at approximately 6:41 p.m. following a 911 call reporting a self-inflicted wound; the caller had been with Short but could not enter the bedroom, per dispatch details.
Official Confirmation
The Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the martin short daughter cause of death as suicide on Feb. 24, with the case remaining open and no toxicology details released. Law enforcement sources first reported the self-inflicted gunshot to TMZ.
Family Statement
A family representative shared the following with multiple outlets:
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.
Background and Career
Short, adopted by Martin Short and his late wife Nancy Dolman—who died of ovarian cancer in 2010—was the eldest of three children, with siblings Oliver Patrick Short, 39, and Henry Hayter Short, 36. She worked as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice and at Amae Health clinic, offering psychotherapy, peer support, and family groups. Short held a bachelor’s in psychology and gender sexuality studies from NYU (2006) and a master’s in social work from USC (2010). She advocated for mental health as part of the nonprofit Bring Change to Mind.
Neighbors’ Reactions
Neighbors described Short as a “great neighbor and gardener,” “very nice,” and friendly, noting her death as “incredibly sad.” One said she waved hi occasionally from her porch but interactions were limited (Page Six).
The martin short daughter cause of death news prompted condolences on social media, linking back to initial reports.
