Tragedy has struck Eric Bolling and his loved ones.
The former Fox News host confirmed via Twitter on Saturday that his son, Eric Chase Bolling died on Friday at the young age of 19.
Initial reports claimed that Eric Chase committed suicide, but his father’s social media message appeared to contradict these claims.
“Adrienne and I are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Eric Chase last night. Details still unclear. Thoughts, prayers appreciated,” wrote Bolling, later adding:
“Authorities have informed us there is no sign of self harm at this point. Autopsy will be next week. Please respect our grieving period.”
Eric Chase was the ex-Fox News anchor’s only child and, according to an Us Weekly insider, was especially close to his dad.
This same insider describes Bolling as having been a “great” father.
Eric Chase Bolling, Jr. died in Boulder, Colorado, where, according to his Facebook, he was studying economics at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
“Very sad news, Eric Bolling’s son, who was only 19, died last night. By all accounts, Eric was incredibly devoted to his son. Heartbreaking,” Huffington Post contributor Yashar Ali wrote on Twitter.
“The one thing I heard from people consistently: he was a devoted dad.”
Chase’s passing took place just hours after his father was let go by the aforementioned cable network due to an investigation into allegations that he had sexually harassed female colleagues, sending them lewd photographs.
We wrote about this Eric Bolling scandal in early August, shortly after the co-host of The Specialists was suspended from his job.
After at first alleging that Chase killed himself, TMZ included an update that outlined how the 19-year old died from an accidental drug overdose.
Sources tell the celebrity gossip site that Chase was “upset” over what had transpired between his father and Fox News and that he was embarrassed over the texting controversy.
“We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Eric Bolling’s son,” said Fox News in a statement.
“Eric Chase was a wonderful young man and our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bolling family.”
Bolling anchored Fox News’ Cashin’ In. and also co-hosted The Specialists and The Five.
He is accused of sending three female colleagues photos of his genitals.
In response to these claims, the network issued the following statement late this week:
“Fox News Channel is canceling The Specialists, and Eric Bolling and Fox have agreed to part ways amicably. We thank Eric for his ten years of service to our loyal viewers and wish him the best of luck.”
We send our condolences to Bolling’s family and will keep readers apprised about the cause of young Chase’s death.
May he rest in peace.