911 Call Released Following Tragic Death of Martin Short's Daughter
A 911 call made to the Los Angeles Fire Department in connection with the tragic death of Katherine Short, the 42-year-old daughter of Hollywood actor and comedian Martin Short, has been publicly released. The call, obtained by the Daily Mail, reveals distressing details from the scene at her Hollywood Hills home on Monday, February 23, 2026.
Details of the Emergency Call
In the call, a 911 operator informed first responders that Katherine's gunshot wound was "self-inflicted" and that someone present at the property was unable to access the bedroom where she was located. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the emergency at 6:41 PM local time, though they did not identify the individual on-site due to privacy concerns. Katherine was pronounced dead at the scene, with authorities confirming her death as a suicide.
Family Statement and Background
On Tuesday, February 24, representatives for Martin Short issued a heartbreaking statement confirming Katherine's passing. "It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short," the statement read. "The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world."
Katherine and her siblings, Oliver and Henry, were adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman. The couple was married for 30 years before Nancy's death from ovarian cancer in 2010. Katherine, a clinic social worker involved with the mental health charity Bring Change 2 Mind, had been a supportive presence at many of her father's events, including the afterparty for The Producers in May 2023, where she was photographed with Goldie Hawn.
Recent Public Appearances and Connections
The last public appearance of Katherine with her father was during her 40th birthday celebrations in 2023, which were attended by notable figures such as Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn, Joni Mitchell, and Catherine O'Hara. Tragically, Catherine O'Hara, a fellow comedian and colleague of Martin Short from Second City Television, also passed away earlier this year on January 30, aged 71, following a brief illness. Her death came shortly before she was due to begin production on her hit series The Studio.
Broader Context and Support Resources
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. For those struggling, support is available through organizations like the Samaritans, which operates a free helpline at 116 123, open 24/7. The release of the 911 call underscores the personal tragedy faced by the Short family, amidst a year that has also seen the loss of other prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
