Breaking News: Joanie “Chyna” Laurer Passes Away at Age 45

Former WWE superstar Joanie Laurer, better known as Chyna, has passed away at the age of 45.

Entertainment Online confirmed the story on their official website, stating that Redondo Beach police found her body in her apartment on Wednesday evening. The cause of her death is unknown at this time, and is still being investigated by police. ABC News sent out the following tweet, with an official statement by the police:

 

JUST IN: Police in Southern California investigating the death of former pro wrestler Chyna. https://t.co/FzeQ5R2C16 pic.twitter.com/mWc6lBXn1c

— ABC News (@ABC) April 21, 2016

Her official Instagram account, as well as a representative from her official website TheRealChyna.com confirmed the report as well, issuing this statement:

#ripchyna from all of us at Team Chyna we will always love you. ??? Felix

A photo posted by Chyna (@chynajoanlaurer) on Apr 20, 2016 at 9:25pm PDT

WWE.com released the following statement on their website regarding the situation:

WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Joanie Laurer, best known for competing in WWE as Chyna, has passed away.

A physically striking and talented performer, Chyna was a true sports-entertainment pioneer. Not only was the Superstar dubbed “The Ninth Wonder of the World” a founding member of the groundbreaking faction D-Generation X, but she also holds the distinction of being the first woman to enter the Royal Rumble Match and the first and only woman to win the Intercontinental Championship.

WWE extends its condolences to Laurer’s family, friends and fans.

WWE Chief Brand Officer Stephanie McMahon tweeted the following regarding the news as well:

 

I just heard the tragic news that @ChynaJoanLaurer has passed. She was truly a pioneer in our industry, and she will be missed. #RIPChyna

— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) April 21, 2016

You can find the official ET report at this link. We will continue to update this story as more details arise.

Editor’s Note:

I woke up to the news this morning and was in absolute shock. It’s no secret that Chyna had some personal issues, and it is just so sad to see someone pass away so young. We at Wrestling Rumors extend our deepest condolences to Chyna’s family, friends, and anyone who’s life that she impacted in a positive way.

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