Presley Gerber, 27, the model and son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, died on Sunday in Los Angeles after being admitted to a rehabilitation center earlier that day. While the official cause of death has not been confirmed, it is strongly suspected to have been related to a drug overdose.

Gerber, who followed his mother’s footsteps into modeling, had been open in recent years about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse. He was signed to IMG Models at age 15, around the same time as his younger sister Kaia, signaling the beginning of his career in the fashion industry.

The loss has profoundly affected the Gerber family, particularly Cindy Crawford, who marked her 60th birthday this year. The tragedy echoes a personal sorrow from Crawford’s past—her younger brother Jeffrey died of leukemia when she was 10. The loss left a lasting impact on her, and she has spoken publicly about the enduring grief and survivor’s guilt related to that childhood trauma.

A family friend indicated that Crawford’s foremost concern is supporting Kaia, 25, through her grief. "Suddenly she’s an only child," the friend said, adding that while Kaia has a strong support network including friends and a boyfriend, Cindy fears the emotional toll of losing her brother will be lifelong. The friend suggested that Crawford, drawing from her own experience, understands the depth and persistence of such grief.

Gerber’s parents, Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, had presented a united and affectionate family image as recently as last spring, appearing together with Presley and Kaia in a promotional campaign for an activewear brand. The campaign featured intimate moments capturing their close bond, including footage of Crawford embracing Presley and Kaia alongside the Pacific Ocean.

Presley was born in 1999, a year after his mother’s marriage to Rande Gerber. Cindy Crawford has described her transition into motherhood as among the most challenging and rewarding experiences of her life. Presley was an athlete who spent considerable time in and on the water, participating in school surf and swim teams, as well as water polo.

Despite the outward success and familial affection documented in public appearances and interviews, Presley’s mental health struggles began at an early age. He was prescribed the antidepressant Prozac during his teenage years, indicating ongoing battles that he openly acknowledged.

The family has not released further statements since Presley’s passing, and investigations into the exact circumstances of his death remain ongoing. The loss underscores the ongoing challenges faced by those contending with mental health and substance abuse issues, even amid the privileges and pressures of high-profile lives.