Former child star Daveigh Chase died of AIDS and substance use, medical examiner says
Los Angeles County officials said the actress, known for roles in "Lilo & Stitch" and "The Ring," died at 35 from AIDS and chronic polysubstance use.
Los Angeles County medical examiners reported that Daveigh Chase, the former child actress who voiced Lilo Pelekai in Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" and portrayed Samara in the horror film "The Ring," died on June 16 at age 35. The cause of death was listed as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), with chronic polysubstance use identified as a contributing factor. The investigation did not disclose the specific substances involved.
Chase, whose legal name was Daveigh Schwallier, had been experiencing homelessness and severe malnutrition, according to her father, John Schwallier. He previously told NBC News that she had also suffered from bacterial meningitis and a blood infection. A former manager could not be reached for comment.
During her career, Chase appeared in television series such as "ER," "Charmed," "The Practice" and "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," with her most prominent work occurring in 2002.
The case remains open as authorities continue to gather information.