Etika
Image: Etika, Instagram

Update: New York Police Department's Twitter account has confirmed the news we'd all been fearing:


Original Story: Police investigating the disappearance of YouTuber Etika have revealed that a body has been found in New York City's East River, reports the BBC. Etika – real name Desmond Amofah – has been missing for six days. The body has yet to be formally identified, and police say the investigation continues.

Possessions belonging to the YouTube star – who has over 130,000 followers on the video channel, as well as 321,000 followers on Twitter and 252,000 on Instagram – were found on Manhattan Bridge on Monday. His Nintendo Switch console was also found at the scene.

Known for his high-energy reaction videos and exuberant personality, Etika has made discussing Nintendo one of his prime focuses. However, one of his most recent videos touched upon the topic of suicide. A video uploaded at midnight on 19th June featured the YouTuber walking the streets of New York, apologising for his behaviour and confirming that he has a mental illness.

In the video – which has been removed from YouTube – he also talks about social media being a negative force in his life, stating that "It can give you an image of what you want your life to be and get blown completely out of proportion," and adding "Unfortunately, it consumed me."

Our thoughts are with Etika's family and friends at this difficult time. It also seems right to link to The Samaritans at this point; this organisation does amazing work.

[source bbc.co.uk]