Storage Wars star Darrell Sheets was seen interacting with fans shortly before his death at 67, which is suspected to be a suicide.
Sheets was photographed with fans at his antique store, Havasu Show Me Your Junk, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, around 5 p.m. local time on Tuesday, April 21, according to TMZ. The images show Sheets smiling and giving a thumbs-up, with fans describing him as friendly and in high spirits during their meeting.
The Lake Havasu City Police Department confirmed to Us Weekly on Wednesday, April 22, that they responded to a call about a “reported deceased individual” earlier that day and declared Sheets dead at the scene.
“The deceased has been identified as Darrell Sheets, a 67-year-old resident of Lake Havasu City. His family has been informed,” a police spokesperson told Us. “This incident is still under investigation, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.”
Sheets leaves behind his son and Storage Wars co-star, Brandon “The Sidebet” Sheets, daughter Tiffany Shane Sheets, and granddaughter Zoie. He was previously married to Kimber Wuerfel, and they separated in 2016.
Known as “The Gambler” on Storage Wars, Darrell was a beloved original cast member. Many co-stars have paid tribute to him following the news of his death, including Brandi Passante from the A&E show’s “Young Guns” duo.
“I’ve known Darrel [sic] Sheets for many years. I’m just so very sorry to hear the circumstances of his passing,” she expressed via Instagram on Wednesday. “My heart hurts for [his son] Brandon, [his granddaughter Zoie], and [ex-wife] Kimber. I unfortunately lost a parent and a brother to similar situations. I would like to say to everyone, if you are struggling, if you feel hopeless or like no one cares. I assure you they do!! You are not alone.”
Darrell Sheets, Kimber Sheets, and Brandon Sheets in May 2013 in New York City. Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images for A+E Networks
Rene Nezhoda, a frequent rival of the Sheets family on Storage Wars, suggested that Darrell faced cyberbullying before his death.
“I know Darrell would want something positive to come from this. He was recently tormented by someone through cyberbullying,” Nezhoda told TMZ. “Just because you see us on TV doesn’t mean you know us or what we stand for. It also doesn’t give you the right to bully someone.”
Nezhoda continued, “Cyberbullying should never happen. If someone you know enjoys bullying others, whether it’s a celebrity, athlete, or schoolmate, give them a wake-up call. Encourage them to be better human beings because you never know what struggles someone might be facing or what your words might push them towards.”
A&E, which aired over 340 episodes of Storage Wars since 2010, also honored Darrell’s memory. Although he stepped back from the show following a heart attack in 2019, he made occasional appearances until 2023.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved Storage Wars family member, Darrell ‘The Gambler’ Sheets,” a network representative stated to Us on Wednesday. “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this challenging time.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, support is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
