“Storm Chasers” star Joel Taylor has died. He was 38.
“We can confirm that Joel Taylor has passed away while on a cruise,” Richard L. Duggar II of Martin-Duggar Funeral Home said in a statement on behalf of the Taylor family. “The cause of the death has not yet been determined. We ask for your understanding during this difficult time and your respect for the family while they deal with the loss of their son.”
The passing of the Discovery Channel reality show star was first shared late last night by Facebook group Team Western OK Chaser. Taylor’s former “Storm Chasers” co-star also tweeted out a tribute on Tuesday.
“It will most likely be quite a while before the medical professionals have those answers and when they do then it will be relayed to the family,” an update to Team Western’s original post — which has since been removed — said. “I’d hope we would all just pray for them at this time because I know they have the same questions and are hurting deeply at his sudden passing. If you knew or know his parents and family you would understand that they are the kindest and sweetest people and are in great pain for the loss of their child and brother. Please lift them up in prayers and support.”
And here is Timmer’s tweet:
RIP my best friend and storm chasing partner, Joel Taylor. I am shocked and absolutely devastated by the loss of my incredible, caring friend. We chased so many intense storms, and I wish we could have just one more storm chase. I'll miss you forever, Joel. We lost a legend pic.twitter.com/htN45t8wik
— Reed Timmer, PhD (@ReedTimmerAccu) January 24, 2018
“We are so saddened to hear about Joel’s passing,” Discovery Channel told TheWrap through a network spokesperson. “We will always remember him fondly as an incredible meteorologist and driver of “The Dominator.” Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
“Storm Chasers” ran from 2007-2010 on Discovery.