Nick McGlashan from Deadliest Catch was found dead this past Sunday in Nashville, Tennessee. The embattled fisherman and reality star had a long history of substance abuse. The police have not yet made a ruling on his death.

McGlashan appeared on 78 episodes of the intense crab fishing show, spanning from 2013 to 2020. He was a seventh-generation crab fisherman, who grew up in a crabbing family and was raised near the Dutch Harbor on the island of Akutan, Alaska. McGlashan was well-known for his extensive experience as a fisherman, as well as his “witty quips.” He first started crabbing on the Bering Sea at the tender age of 13 years old. He encountered difficulties in his life, and during Deadliest Catch season 13, he was admitted to a rehab facility due to his struggles with alcohol and drugs. Despite his personal problems, he was able to command the respect of his fellow crew members.

At this time, police are not able to comment on McGlashan’s death, as his passing is being investigated, according to Us Magazine. Discovery Channel has released a statement, “Our deepest sympathy goes out to Nick’s loved ones during this difficult time.” McGlashan is the second Deadliest Catch crew member to have died this year. Fellow crabber Mahlon Reyes was found deceased due to a heart attack in July. After Reyes’ death, McGlashan added a touching memorial post to his Twitter account, with the caption, “This place misses you. RIP Mahlon.” See the post below:

Alaskan crab fishing is notoriously one of the most dangerous jobs to undertake. Sailors are paid lucrative sums of money to venture out into the Bering Sea during its stormiest season when the crabs are available for catching. Trips are often 3 months long, and workdays are grueling. The risk of injury is high. Most crab fishermen are either experienced sailors or come from crabbing families. It is rare for average people to be admitted as greenhorns or starting deckhands on any ships. Injuries at work often go untreated for months, as there is no way to gain access to hospitals while out at sea. Over the years, the job takes a toll on some people, both physically and emotionally.

McGlashan is remembered by his crew members as a good-natured deck boss who possessed impressive knowledge about Alaskan crabbing. He successfully battled addictions to alcohol, heroin, and methamphetamine. He got sober in 2016. He once wrote, “My life went from Bering Sea badass to full-blown junkie very rapidly. Hidden from me was that passion I had for life. Taken from me was my ability to live. I was at war with my addiction and it was winning.” McGlashan was 33 years old at the time of his passing. Thoughts and prayers go out to to the family of the late Deadliest Catch star during this difficult time.