RJ Mitte dies as co-stars mourn in Brownsville death investigation

Police in Brownsville confirmed the death of actor RJ Mitte during an ongoing municipal police inquiry Monday. The sudden loss prompted widespread tributes from his former television cast members.

The Brownsville Police Department in Texas confirmed Mitte died Monday. The cause and manner of death were under investigation.

Co-star Bryan Cranston wrote a long message on Instagram alongside a photograph of him and Mitte.

“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight. RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad has died.”

Cranston noted he met Mitte when the actor was 14 years old. Mitte was cast as Walter White Jr. on the series.

Cranston said Mitte was born with cerebral palsy. Mitte never allowed that challenge to serve as an excuse.

Co-star Dean Norris played the uncle of Mitte’s character. Norris said he was working when he learned the news.

“Oh my God! Though RJ didn’t play my TV son, I always looked out for him as a young kid on set.”

Norris added that Mitte was a sweetheart of a young man. Norris said he was thinking of Mitte and his family.

Actor Aaron Paul told The Hollywood Reporter he was at a loss.

“I am heartbroken over this news. RJ, I love you my friend.”

Actors Daniel Moncada and Luis Moncada posted memories and photographs. Both called Mitte their lil brother.

Mitte was an actor and disability rights advocate. Doctors diagnosed him with cerebral palsy at age 3.

Mitte discussed his life with The Associated Press in 2014. He said his struggles with physical therapy and medical bills improved his work.

“You develop a different mentality and you develop a different look at how the world sees you and how you see the world. You’re able to use that.”

Mitte served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also led the Mitte Foundation.

The Mitte Cultural District of Brownsville released a statement Monday about the loss.

“RJ was a tremendous asset to our community, and we are devastated by this loss. His commitment to Brownsville and the Mitte Cultural District went far beyond philanthropy.”

Municipal police departments routinely conduct initial investigations to determine the cause of unexplained deaths. These formal inquiries involve investigators documenting facts until official autopsy findings are released.

People in crisis can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Trained counselors are available to offer support.