Naya Rivera’s family have broken their silence following the tragic death of the actress.
The 33-year-old’s body was discovered five days after the star vanished while on a day out with her son, Josey.
Alarms were raised after Naya failed to return a rental boat, four hours after it was due back.
A search of Lake Piru resulted in the vessel being found with only Naya’s four-year-old son onboard, the pair had been swimming in the lake but Naya later drowned while ensuring her son got back onto the boat.
Naya, pictured with her mum was described by the family as a “sassy angel”
Just hours after the result of the autopsy was published, her family have spoken for the first time.
In a statement issued to media by Naya’s former manager Gladys Gonzalez, they thanks those who were involved in the recovery mission.
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers for Naya, Josey and our family over the past week.
The star went missing after a day out with her son, Josey (Image: Getty)
“While we grieve the loss of our beautiful legend, we are blessed to honour her everlasting legacy and magnetic spirit. Naya was an amazing talent but was an even greater person, mother, daughter and sister,” it said.
The family went on to say: “Thank you to the men and women of the Ventura, Tulare, and San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Departments for your commitment and unwavering effort to find Naya.
Naya’s co-stars and relatives gathered at the lakeside as they waited for her body to be recovered (Image: ABC7 / Twitter)
“We extend endless gratitude and ovation to the heroine who found her. Thank you to her friends, colleagues, and fans for your continuous support.”
Closing, they paid tribute to their “sassy angel”.
The Ventura County Medical Examiner ruled that the cause of her death was “consistent with drowning”.
It added that there was no traumatic injuries or diseases identified during the autopsy and that there was no indication that drugs or alcohol played a part in her death.
A memorial service for the Glee actress is expected to be held at a later date.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
