Alf star Benji Gregory found dead in car aged 46 as fans say death is ‘crushing’

The child star of ‘Alf’, Benji Gregory, has tragically been found dead in his car at the age of 46, leaving fans heartbroken.

His sister, Rebecca, revealed the devastating news that her brother was discovered in a car park in Peoria, Arizona, around a month ago on June 13. According to TMZ, the location was the parking lot of a Chase Bank.

While official confirmation is still pending from The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office, preliminary reports suggest that the death occurred on the confirmed date of June 13. Rebecca has disclosed her brother’s personal battles with depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep condition that often kept him awake for days at a time.

Close friends think that before his untimely demise, Benji had gone to the bank to deposit residual checks on June 12 but fell asleep in his vehicle. Given the intense heat during Arizona’s summer, it is speculated that he may have succumbed to vehicular heatstroke.

Intrepid Travel reports that June temperatures in the area can reach an average high of 41 degrees Celsius (106F), with lows around 23C (73F), reports the Daily Star.

In a heartbreaking twist, Benji’s service dog, Hans, also perished in the car. Fans have taken to various online platforms to express their condolences for the actor and ex-serviceman.

A fan named Harriet voiced her sadness: “Omg! That is crushing. So young.. why.” Another expressed: “Tragic :(“. Chuck offered his sympathy, writing: “Terrible condolences to his family and friends.”

The grief-stricken family of beloved actor Benji have expressed their sorrow and gratitude, stating they are “grieving a great loss” and “appreciates everyone’s thoughts and kind words”. In honor of Benji, the family has invited well-wishers to make donations to either The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA.

Benji shot to prominence portraying ‘Brian Tanner’ on the hit television series Alf, featuring in 101 episodes that aired between 1986 and 1990. Although he continued his acting career, he did not achieve superstar status and bid farewell to the entertainment industry in 2003 to serve in the US Navy.

Adding another feather to his cap, Benji excelled and graduated as an aerographer’s mate. In testament to his service, he was accorded an honourable medical discharge in 2005.