The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s newly released autopsy report details the heartbreaking chain of events that led to the discovery of Katherine Hartley Short, 42, at her Hollywood Hills home
Months after the death of Martin Short‘s daughter Katherine, new details are coming to light. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has released her autopsy report, and it reveals how the Only Murders in the Building star’s growing concern over his daughter directly led authorities to her.
He Hadn’t Heard From Her in Over 24 Hours
When Martin Short went more than a day without any word from Katherine, he reached out to a close friend and asked them to go check on her at her Hollywood Hills home. The friend arrived to find Katherine’s bedroom door locked from the inside, with a note on the door. They called 911 immediately.
Officers forced their way in and found Katherine in bed. A Glock 19 9mm pistol was found beneath her chest. A suicide note was recovered at the scene. The Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. She was 42.
Who Was Katherine Short?
Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles. She was adopted by Martin and his late wife Nancy Dolman — along with her two brothers, Oliver and Henry. Nancy passed away in 2010 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Katherine had legally changed her name to Katherine Hartley in 2012. People close to her say she had been dealing with mental health challenges for years and had entered rehab on more than one occasion.
Martin Stepped Away From Everything
After Katherine’s death in February 2026, Martin Short pulled back from public life. He skipped the 2026 Actor Awards even though he was nominated for his work as Oliver Putnam on Only Murders in the Building. His comedy tour with Steve Martin was also postponed. At the 2026 Oscars, host Conan O’Brien gave Martin a warm, emotional shoutout from the stage.
The Short family’s statement said: “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. 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.”
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Help is available 24/7.
