Sawyer Sweeten
IN PHOTO (L-R) The cast of "Everybody Loves Raymond," Monica Horan, Doris Roberts, Sawyer Sweeten, Ray Romano, Brad Garrett and Patricia Heaton accept their awards at the 8th Annual TV Land Awards in Los Angeles, California, April 17, 2010. Reueters/Gus Ruelas

"Everybody Loves Raymond" actor Sawyer Sweeten has taken his own life, according to an official statement released by his manager. Sweeten, who played Geoffrey Barone in the American comedy sitcom starring Ray Romano, was just 19-years-old. He was 1when the show started in 1996 and quit acting after it ended in 2005. The reason for his suicide is not yet determined.

“This morning a terrible family tragedy has occurred,” Sweeten family said in a statement, published on the The Hollywood Reporter. “We are devastated to report that our beloved brother, son, and friend, Sawyer Sweeten, took his own life.” The statement also said that Sweeten was weeks away from his 20th birthday on May 12. The family requested for “privacy” at this sensitive time.

Various media reports suggest that the former child star shot himself while visiting his family in Texas. However, no confirmation is given by his family on this report. His manager Dino May told Mirror that Sweeten was a "good kid" and showed “no depression, no nothing.” The actor was not into drugs and was a very normal teenager, added his manager.

Actor Ray Romano also paid an emotional tribute to his on-screen son saying he is “shocked, and terribly saddened, by the news about Sawyer.” Romano called Sweeten a “wonderful and sweet kid to be around” who had “great energy whenever he was there.” The actor further said that his “heart breaks for him, his family, and his friends during this very difficult time."

Sweeten featured in the show alongside his twin brother, Sullivan, and his sister Madylin. The teenager was also remembered by his on-screen mother Patricia Heaton who called him “funny and exceptionally bright young man” who died too soon. “The entire cast of “Everybody Loves Raymond” is in shock,” said Patricia on Twitter. She also sent prayers for the Sweeten family. The actor starred in “Everybody Loves Raymond” from 1996 to 2005.

For feedback, email: n.tewari@ibtimes.com.au

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