Robert Cosby Jr., known as the son of Mary Cosby from the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, has tragically passed away at the young age of 23.
Although the precise cause of his death has yet to be confirmed, initial police reports responded to what was labeled as a ‘possible overdose,’ which has since escalated into a formal death investigation.
According to Salt Lake City police, officers were called to a ‘full arrest/medical emergency’ situation involving a 23-year-old male on Monday night, as reported by TMZ.
Firefighters and paramedics also arrived at the scene, though specific details remain undisclosed by the authorities at this time.
The network Bravo has confirmed this heartbreaking news through a statement shared with the Daily Mail.
“We are devastated to hear about the passing of Mary’s beloved son, Robert Jr. Mary holds a special place in our hearts, and our thoughts, love, and deepest sympathies are extended to her and her family during this exceptionally challenging period.”
Robert Cosby Jr., the son of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby, has died at the age of 23, according to a report from TMZ
A separate statement was also shared on behalf of Mary Cosby and her husband, Robert Sr. Cosby.
‘Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord. Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God’s promise and in knowing he is finally at peace. We are grateful for your prayers and trust in the Lord to carry us through this time of sorrow.’
Additional details surrounding the incident have since emerged through 911 dispatch audio, obtained by the Daily Mail.
According to the audio, first responders were alerted to an unresponsive 23-year-old man who was not breathing. Dispatchers stated that Narcan had been administered, and that multiple police units were already en route to the scene.
Authorities confirmed they responded to the emergency call at approximately 6:14 p.m. Firefighters and paramedics were also dispatched. No further details have been released by officials.
Following the news, Andy Cohen took to Threads to react to the heartbreaking news.
‘Devastatingly sad news out of SLC,’ Cohen wrote. ‘This is every parent’s worst nightmare. My heart is broken for Mary, and I am sending all my love to her and Robert Sr.’
Mary has appeared on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City since its debut, with her family life occasionally featured on the show.
While an official cause of death has not been released, police responded to what was initially described as a ‘possible overdose,’ which later became a death investigation
Robert’s death comes just weeks after he was released from Salt Lake County Metro Jail after serving two months behind bars.
At this time, his attorney Clayton Simms told People that Robert ‘expresses deep regret regarding his prior actions and acknowledges that his past behavior demonstrates poor judgment.’
Three days after his release, Robert’s mom shared a photo of him, alongside the cryptic message, ‘Thank you all for your prayers. Love you.’
At the time, members of the Real Housewives franchise expressed their support in the comments section.
‘Lots of prayers for you and Robert, Mary,’ The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Sutton Stracke wrote.
Dolores Catania, from The Real Housewives of New Jersey, commented: ‘God bless Robert.’
Her Real Housewives of Salt Lake City costar Heather Gay simply sent her ‘love.’
Salt Lake City police told TMZ that officers responded Monday night to a call for a ‘full arrest/medical emergency’ involving a 23-year-old male
Robert’s death comes just weeks after he was released from Salt Lake County Metro Jail after serving two months behind bars
In November, his wife, Alexiana Smokoff, filed for divorce.
Viewers of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City saw Robert appear on the Bravo series several times over the years.
During season four, Mary Cosby addressed learning that her son had secretly married Alexiana without her knowledge.
The wedding reportedly took place in August 2022 at a Utah courthouse.
Robert and Alexiana’s alleged struggles with substance use were also featured as part of Mary’s storyline on the show.
Robert had a history of legal issues.
Mary has appeared on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City since its debut, with her family life occasionally featured on the show (Mary seen in 2024)
He was arrested in Utah in September on multiple alleged charges, including trespassing and assault.
He was previously arrested in 2022 for driving under the influence, at which time police said he did not have a valid license and failed to follow traffic laws.
He later pleaded guilty to the DUI charge.
During part 2 of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City season 6 reunion, which aired in January, Mary spoke about her son’s arrest and time in jail.
‘I know he’s somewhere where he’s not using,’ she said. ‘Unfortunately he’s learning the hard way, but I’m okay with it.’
Still, she said, as a mother, ‘you don’t wanna see your kid suffer, but I know it’s good, and I’d rather him be there than dead.’
During the same interview, Mary got emotional as she reflected on his legal woes.
‘I can’t go to the jail, Andy, that’s a little weird,’ she said. ‘No. I don’t want to look at my child behind the glass. He calls me every day, and I’m basically preaching to him. I’m like, “You’re going through this, but you have to realize that God is allowing it, and if God allowed it, then it’s for your good. This will help you to change, and you’ve got to change.”‘
