Alf child star Benji Gregory found dead in car age 46 as fans 'crushed'

The former child star of 'Alf', Benji Gregory, has tragically been found dead in his car at the tender age of 46, leaving fans devastated.

His sister, Rebecca, broke the heart-wrenching news that her brother was discovered lifeless in a car park in Peoria, Arizona, approximately a month ago on June 13. The location, as reported by TMZ, was the parking lot of a Chase Bank.

While an official confirmation is still awaited from The Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office, initial reports suggest that the death occurred on the confirmed date of June 13. Rebecca has opened up about her brother's personal struggles with depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep condition that often kept him awake for days on end.

Close friends believe that before his untimely passing, Benji had gone to the bank to deposit residual checks on June 12 but fell asleep in his vehicle. Given the scorching heat during Arizona's summer, it is speculated that he may have fallen victim to vehicular heatstroke.

According to Intrepid Travel, June temperatures in the area can soar to an average high of 41 degrees Celsius (106F), with lows around 23C (73F), reports the Mirror.

In a tragic turn of events, Benji's service dog, Hans, also lost his life in the car. Fans have flooded various online platforms to express their condolences for the actor and ex-serviceman.

A dejected fan, named Harriet, expressed her grief: "Omg! That is crushing. So young.. why."

Another mourned: "Tragic :(". Chuck offered his empathy, remarking: "Terrible condolences to his family and friends."

The heartbroken family of the cherished actor Benji have issued a statement revealing their distress and gratitude, admitting they are "grieving a great loss" and "appreciates everyone's thoughts and kind words". In tribute to Benji, the family has requested well-wishers to send donations to either The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA.

Benji rose to fame playing the character 'Brian Tanner' on the popular television series Alf, appearing in 101 episodes broadcast between 1986 and 1990. Despite keeping up with his acting career, he didn't reach high-profile stardom and bid adieu to showbiz in 2003 to join the US Navy.

Adding another accomplishment to his record, Benji succeeded and graduated as an aerographer's mate. In acknowledgement of his service, he received an honourable medical discharge in 2005.