Body of Reality TV Star Matt Brown Found in Washington River
Matt Brown, the eldest son featured in Discovery Channel's Alaskan Bush People reality series, was found dead in the Okanogan River in Washington state on May 30, 2026, following a three-day search. The 42 or 43-year-old had been reported missing after a witness reported a man in the river. A private search party located his body on Saturday, with his brother Noah identifying him. Brown appeared on the show from 2014 to 2019 before leaving to focus on his recovery. He had publicly struggled with alcohol and substance abuse issues over many years. The Okanogan County Sheriff's Office is investigating the circumstances. The coroner will determine the official cause and manner of death. His family released statements reflecting on his intellect, curiosity, and artistic talents. The Brown family requested privacy during this difficult time.
Key facts
- Matt Brown's body was found in the Okanogan River on May 30, 2026, by a private search party
- He was reported missing on May 27 or 28, 2026
- Brown was 42 or 43 years old at the time of death
- He appeared on Alaskan Bush People from 2014 to 2019
- Brown had publicly struggled with alcohol and substance abuse since at least 2016
- His brother Noah identified the body pulled from the river
- A firearm was recovered from the area where Brown was last seen
- The Okanogan County Coroner will determine cause and manner of death
- His family released a statement recalling his intelligence, creativity, and kindness
Limits of this briefing
The official cause and manner of death have not yet been released by the coroner as of June 2, 2026. Some sources differ slightly on Brown's exact age at death (42 vs 43). Media reports include details from family statements and witness accounts but represent informed speculation about circumstances rather than confirmed facts until the coroner's official determination.
Sources
- NBC News: Body of 'Alaskan Bush People' star Matt Brown found in Washington state river Centre
- Fox News: 'Alaskan Bush People' star Matt Brown found dead in Washington state river at the age of 42 Right
- TMZ: 'Alaskan Bush People' Star Matt Brown's Body Found in Washington River by Private Search Party Centre
- Biography.com: What to Know About Matt Brown, the Alaskan Bush People Star Found Dead in a Washington River Centre
- Alaska's News Source: Family of Matt Brown from 'Alaskan Bush People' reflect on his life and death Centre