More heartbreaking details have emerged following the tragic death of Michelle Trachtenberg.

Michelle Trachtenberg has died at the age of 39. Credit: Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images

The beloved actress – known for her roles in hit shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl – tragically passed away on Wednesday (Feb 26) at the age of 39.

Now, TMZ has reported that law enforcement sources have stated that Trachtenberg was found “unconscious and unresponsive” in bed at her Manhattan apartment by her mother, Lana.

Mom Lana then called the police and paramedics. Despite the immediate emergency response, Trachtenberg was pronounced dead at the scene.

A medical examiner’s van is seen parked outside of Michelle Trachtenberg’s apartment. Credit: MEGA/GC Images/Getty

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, confirmed in a statement.

Her death comes just months after reportedly undergoing a liver transplant, per the New York Post. Sources have also corroborated this news to PEOPLE.

While the official cause of death has yet to be determined, reports indicate that complications from her transplant may have played a role. However, authorities have stated there is no suspicion of foul play.

The New York City medical examiner is set to conduct an autopsy.

Michelle Trachtenberg and her mom, Lana. Credit: L. Cohen/WireImage for Intuition/Getty

Law enforcement sources confirm that Trachtenberg was last seen alive around 10:00PM Tuesday and had recently been out with friends, showing no immediate signs of distress.

Trachtenberg ‘Knew That Death Was A High Possibility’, Friend Says

Trachtenberg was aware of the severity of her health issues in the months leading up to her death, according to her friend Amanda de Cadenet.

De Cadenet, a photographer and TV host, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing: “I will not share the details of our conversations over the last 6 months, but you knew that death was a high possibility and I am only sorry that the outcome was not a better one.”

In her initial post — later edited, per PageSix — she recalled a FaceTime call with Trachtenberg from a hospital bed. Though the actress’s appearance had changed, de Cadenet said her spirit remained intact.

“I will always remember you as the young vivacious woman I met when I took this photo of you … and seeing your face from the hospital bed when we FaceTimed recently, even though you did not look like you, your sweetness and humor were still alive,” she wrote.

While de Cadenet chose to keep the details of their conversations private, she confirmed that Trachtenberg had come to terms with the seriousness of her condition and the possibility of a tragic outcome. She ended her message by wishing her late friend peace.

A Career That Defined a Generation

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her career at just three years old.

She became known for appearing in some of the most popular shows and movies from the 90s and 00s — making her a beloved star for millennials in particular as they grew up with her work.

Michelle Trachtenberg starred in some of the biggest shows and movies of the 90s and 00s. Credit: Albert L. Ortega/WireImage/Getty Images

Trachtenberg quickly rose to prominence with her role on The Adventures of Pete & Pete, before breaking into mainstream success with Harriet the Spy in 1996. She became a household name as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film credits include EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again, making her a staple in the early 2000s teen movie scene.

Heartfelt Tributes from Hollywood

News of Michelle’s passing has shaken the entertainment industry, with co-stars and fellow actors paying their respects.

Rosie O’Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on Harriet the Spy, described the loss as “heartbreaking,” sharing: “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Rosie O”Donnell embraces Michelle Trachtenberg in 1996. Credit: Evan Agostini/Liaison/Getty

Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass on Gossip Girl, wrote on Instagram Stories: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”

David Boreanaz, her Buffy co-star, also expressed his sorrow: “So very sad … horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow on Buffy, reflected: “I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”

Fellow Buffy actor Emma Caulfield added: “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today … Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You are loved.”

James Marsters, known for playing Spike, praised Michelle’s intelligence and humor, writing: “My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. She was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young.”

Nickelodeon alum Kenan Thompson also paid tribute, writing: “Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! Check on your people!!!”

Ashmore paid tribute on Instagram. Credit: J. Vespa/WireImage/Getty

Her ex-boyfriend, X-Men actor Shawn Ashmore, also reminisced in a heartfelt tribute: “Incredibly sad to hear about Michelle’s passing.

“She was an incredible person and I will always remember the years we spent together fondly. She was loving, quirky and would never pass up a law and order SVU marathon:”

Ashmore added: “My condolences to her mother Lana and sister Irene! This is an incredible loss!”

Final Social Media Posts and Fan Tributes

Just days before her passing, Michelle shared a throwback Instagram post of herself in a green dress, playfully captioning it: “I wanted to look like naughty #Tinkerbell.” The post has since been flooded with messages from devastated fans.

One commenter wrote: “Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles.” Another shared a heartfelt memory:

“I met you once at an airport about 18 years ago, coming back from deployment. You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn’t have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago. I kept that picture all the way up until last year when my computer crashed and it was lost. Thanks for the conversation and the memory, Michelle. Fair winds and following seas wherever your eternity lies.”

Last year, fans had expressed concern over her appearance, with many speculating about her health. Michelle, however, fiercely defended herself, stating she was “happy and healthy.”

“Explain to me how I look sick,” she wrote in response to a follower’s comment last January. She also pushed back against those who still saw her as the child star they grew up with, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

“I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters,” the actress wrote in a follow-up post.

A selfie shared by Michelle back in January. Credit: Instragram/michelletrachtenberg

Trachtenberg’s passing is a devastating loss for Hollywood and for the fans who grew up watching her on screen. While questions remain about the circumstances of her death, one thing is certain: her talent and impact will not be forgotten.

Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, TMZ adds

Our thoughts continue to go out to Trachtenberg’s family, friends, and fans at this time.