A Tense Emergency Unfolds on Air (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Hollywood Hills – Emergency dispatch audio has surfaced detailing the urgent police and fire response to a reported shooting at the residence of Martin Short’s daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, where authorities discovered her deceased.[1][2]
A Tense Emergency Unfolds on Air
Los Angeles City Fire deputies sprang into action Monday evening after a 911 call reported a shooting on Katherine Short’s street.[1] The audio, obtained from TMZ via Broadcastify.com, captured the high-stakes moments as first responders coordinated their approach.[1]
An officer inquired whether the scene was clear for entry, while dispatch relayed critical details from the caller at the location. The individual reported being present with the patient but unable to access the bedroom door.[2] Confirmation soon followed that the injury appeared self-inflicted, shifting the focus amid the chaos.[1]
Responders arrived shortly after 6:40 p.m. PT on February 23, 2026, to the Hollywood Hills property, where they found the 42-year-old Short unresponsive.[3]
Police Confirm Apparent Suicide
The Los Angeles Police Department and Fire Department treated the incident initially as a shooting before determining it involved a self-inflicted gunshot wound.[3] Officers noted a message on the door upon arrival, underscoring the gravity of the welfare check that prompted the call.[4]
Los Angeles coroner officials later verified the cause as suicide, closing the immediate inquiry into foul play.[5] The LAPD responded to the radio call at precisely 6:43 p.m., locating Short inside her home.[2]
- 6:41 p.m.: Initial 911 call reports shooting or possible suicide at Hollywood Hills address.[3]
- Shortly after: Fire deputies en route; dispatcher notes locked bedroom.[1]
- Arrival: Officers confirm self-inflicted wound; female found deceased.[2]
Katherine Short’s Quiet Dedication to Helping Others
Short led a private life away from her father’s Hollywood spotlight, channeling her education into mental health advocacy. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006, followed by a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.[3]
Professionally, she served as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice and part-time at Amae Health, offering psychotherapy, family support, and community outreach. Short also supported Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit combating mental health stigma.[1][5] Though rarely in the public eye, she joined Martin Short at select events, including her 40th birthday in 2023 and earlier gatherings like the 2003 afterparty for “The Producers.”[3]
Adopted alongside brothers Oliver Patrick, 39, and Henry Hayter, 36, she grew up in a family marked by loss after her mother, Nancy Dolman, died of ovarian cancer in 2010.[2]
Family Mourns a Bright Light Lost
A family representative shared a poignant statement confirming Short’s passing. “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” it read. “The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”[1][5]
The words reflect a deep bond and the shock rippling through their circle. Martin Short, known for roles in “Only Murders in the Building” and countless comedies, has not commented publicly beyond the family’s plea for space.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Apparent suicide by self-inflicted gunshot at age 42 in Hollywood Hills.
- Caller locked out of bedroom during emergency response.
- Short advocated for mental health through her career and nonprofit work.
This tragedy underscores the hidden struggles even those close to fame may face. As investigations conclude, the focus turns to honoring Short’s legacy of compassion. What steps can society take to better support mental health? Share your thoughts in the comments.