Former RuPaul's Drag Race star Lucian Piane has died at the age of 46 after being struck by a vehicle. The medical examiner's office confirmed that he died on Monday, October 12, according to TMZ.
Police and fire response
The outlet reported that Piane had multiple encounters with the Glendale Police Department in the days before his death. He received two citations for the incidents and was scheduled to appear in court on the day he died.
The Glendale Fire Department told the publication that they responded to the scene where Piane was allegedly struck by a vehicle. Their teams attended to him before declaring him deceased at the scene.
Concern from fans
In the weeks before his death, Piane shared several troubling videos on Instagram which raised concern among fans, with many pleading with him to get medical help. He seemed to speak almost incomprehensibly while outside different venues, hoping a stranger would purchase items such as cigars or cigarettes for him, reports the Express.
Piane had previously spoken about his journey towards sobriety. In a post dated August 7, he shared: "Sober over a year and getting back in the game."
Tributes from fans and colleagues
As news of his passing spread online, tributes flooded in from devastated fans who remembered Piane as a producer, judge, and composer who appeared on RuPaul's Drag Race over multiple seasons. One fan shared: "I'm sorry for your struggle, R.I.Paradise forever."
A second echoed: "Devastating news for the Drag Race community. 46 is way too young. RIP Lucian," while a third person added: "Just 46. Heartbreaking news."
Journalist Larry Flick also took to social media to pay his respects, stating: "Lucian was my friend. It wasn't always easy. He was troubled, complicated, and filled with rage that he didn't know how to manage."
"Like many, I tried to help until he made it impossible. Guilt right now is real. The way he left this life was tragic and brutal. But I pray rest and peace await him on the other side."
