Ryan Whyte Maloney committed suicide on January 28. He was best known for competing in season 6 of The Voice in 2014.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The Las Vegas Clark County Coroner confirmed his death to PEOPLE. He is recorded as having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. His tragic death was unexpected among fans, especially considering he was active on social media the night before.
Suicidal struggles are typically invisible, however.
There aren't any more shared details about Whyte Maloney's death. He had last posted on his Instagram story on January 27. He was at a bar, and said, "Nine fine Irishmen for a private party tonight, and we will be rocking," before holding a rock gesture. Whyte Maloney had also posted a meme to his Instagram account a couple of days before his death.
Whyte Maloney spent the years after his time on The Voice working on his music career. He produced some music and enjoyed live performances with famous artist. According to his website, he was in the middle of a residency at Blake Shelton's Ole Red, and had performed live with Shelton.
Apparently, he has also shared a stage with "Blake Shelton, Parmalee, Frank Ray, Tim McGraw, Morgan Wallen, Rascal Flatts, Shakira, Usher, Adam Lavine," and so many more.
Fans Mourn The Tragic And Sudden Loss Of Ryan Whyte Maloney
Hearing of the news, his supporters took to the comments of his old Instagram posts to share their grief.
"Ryan, what the bro?! We loved you. We just saw you at Ole Red on Friday... love you dude," one wrote who saw him live.
"Sending love and light..to Ryan's family..friends..and many fans. May you Rest Peacefully," another comments.
"I'm so sad. I saw you many times over the years on my vacations to Vegas. This Aussie girl will always remember the fun times at your gigs. May you find peace. Fly high, Ryan," another fan wrote.
When he auditioned on The Voice, he scored all four judges. He ultimately chose Blake Shelton, however. Whyte Maloney became one of Shelton's five finalists, and they seemed to remain close after the show.
His loss has affected fans, and will affect all the artists he's had the pleasure of performing alongside.
