In a tragic revelation, Gypsy Rose Blanchard has spoken out following the death of her partner, Ken Urker, who tragically died on what would have been his 34th birthday. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Blanchard expressed her devastation, indicating that she believes the cause of death was an overdose. However, she remains uncertain about the specifics of the incident, including whether it was intentional or accidental.
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Blanchard shared that Urker was found unresponsive in their home in Raceland, Louisiana. The Lafourche Sheriff’s Office responded to the residence shortly after 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 1, and confirmed Urker’s death upon arrival. An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his passing. As of now, no details have emerged regarding the substances involved.
In her emotional statement, Blanchard described Urker as a devoted father to their daughter, Aurora, and expressed that he was the love of her life. “Ken was an amazing father and a man who was deeply loved. He will forever be my soulmate,” she said. “We share a connection that time, distance, and even death can never erase.”
As she grapples with her grief, Blanchard highlighted the significant pressure Urker faced from public scrutiny during their relationship. She elaborated on the harsh treatment he received online, referring to it as relentless cyberbullying. “Ken endured an unimaginable level of public scrutiny across social media platforms,” she noted. “The cruelty directed toward him was something no human being should have to endure.”
Blanchard suggested that the emotional toll from this online harassment may have contributed to Urker’s struggles in recent times. She hopes that his passing might prompt others to remember the humanity behind the headlines and social media comments. “There is a real person behind every screen, every headline, and every comment,” she reminded her audience.
Furthermore, Blanchard emphasised her commitment to ensuring that her daughter knows the truth about her father. “Above all, Ken loved our daughter, Aurora. She is a beautiful reflection of his enduring spirit, and through her, a part of him will always remain with us,” she explained. Blanchard stated her intention to provide Aurora with a clear understanding of her father’s character, free from the negativity of online narratives.
Amid this heartbreaking situation, Blanchard has called for privacy as both families mourn the loss of Urker. “There are no words that can express the depth of this loss,” she stated. “I ask for privacy and compassion for our daughter, our families, and everyone grieving Ken during this incredibly painful time.”
For context, Blanchard and Urker’s relationship has had its ups and downs over the years. Their connection began while Blanchard was still incarcerated for the murder of her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard. Although they became engaged in October 2018, they later called off the engagement before ultimately reuniting in August 2019. After a brief separation during which Blanchard married and subsequently divorced Ryan Anderson, she and Urker reconciled in April 2024.
Their relationship culminated in the birth of their daughter, Aurora Raina Urker, just eight months later, marking a new chapter in their lives. Blanchard now faces the dual challenge of grieving her partner and raising their daughter amidst the heartache.
As the investigation into Urker’s death unfolds, many will be hoping for some clarity in the days to come, while Blanchard continues to navigate this difficult chapter of her life.