Chad Lowe's daughter Fiona, 13, 'took her own life' as cause of death confirmed

Warning: This article includes sensitive content some readers may find distressing

Chad Lowe’s 13-year-old Fiona’s cause of death has been ruled as suicide by the medical examiner.

According to a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Fiona was pronounced dead at 1.14am on 29 September at a hospital.

Actor Chad and his wife Kim Painter announced the tragic news of their daughter’s passing on 29 September.

In a statement, the family said: “We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Fiona. She was a loving young girl who was smart, creative and loved to dance.

“She was adored by her sisters and she was deeply loved by her parents. In fact, she was the light of our lives.

"Her passing is devastating for our entire family and we ask for prayers and privacy at this time. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988."

Fiona was the second child of Chad and Kim’s three daughters. They are also parents to 17-year-old Mabel, and Nixie, 10.

In a report in Page Six, parents at the school Fiona attended were sent an email informing them a student had died.

The email, which did not name the student, read: “It is with deep sadness that I am calling you to advise you of the death of one of our students.

“Our sincere condolences go out to the student’s family, friends and teachers.

“Counselors are available to meet with students and staff who may need emotional support during this difficult time.”

Speaking to PEOPLE, a source said Fiona’s sudden passing had devastated the community and the teen’s school.

“The Lowe family is very involved and are at many school functions. Fiona was sweet, quiet and kind. Dance was her biggest passion, she had a very artistic soul,” the source said.

“She was always kind to other students. Many of her friends are out today grieving.”

Proud dad Chad has shared regular updates and insights into his family life over the years.

Back in November, he shared a sweet post wishing Fiona a happy birthday.

Alongside several photos of Fiona, he wrote: "Celebrating Fiona officially becoming a teen today!! Keep dancing through life FiBear! Love you soooo much!!"

In another more poignant post, he reflected on the family losing their LA home in the Palisades fire and praised his daughters for how they handled it.

Sharing a snap of him and his daughters visiting the site of their former childhood home, he wrote: “Almost a month after we evacuated our girls finally got to go back to see what’s left of their home.

“The way they’ve handled this whole devastating experience is nothing short of remarkable.

“I am in awe of their spirit and resilience. Helping them navigate these tough times is my sole purpose. Being their dad is my life’s greatest joy and privilege.”

If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.