Michelle Trachtenberg's cause of death to remain undetermined


Michelle Trachtenberg

By David Mouriquand Published on 28/02/2025 - 10:26 GMT+1 Michelle Trachtenberg, who played Buffy's younger sister Dawn Summers in the beloved series Buffy The Vampire Slayer, as well as Georgina Sparks in the teen drama Gossip Girl, was found dead in her New York apartment at the age of 39. Her family have refused an autopsy on religious grounds. The cause of death of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg will remain undetermined, as Trachtenberg’s family has requested that no autopsy be conducted because of religious reasons. The New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner did not overrule the family’s decision, as no foul play or criminality is suspected. Trachtenberg, 39, was found unresponsive on Wednesday 26 February in her New York apartment. The actress had recently undergone a liver transplant and may have suffered complications, police sources told ABC News. A spokesperson for the family issued a statement Wednesday confirming her death. “It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time,” the statement read.