Police in Vermont are investigating the tragic death of former child actress Sophie Nyweide, who was found lifeless on a riverbank in Bennington on April 14, 2025. The 24-year-old actress, known for her roles in films such as Mammoth and An Invisible Sign, was discovered around 4 a.m. by authorities who responded to reports of an unresponsive female.
The investigation into Nyweide's death has raised questions about potential foul play, although officials have stated that no suspects have been identified at this time. The Bennington Police Department is awaiting final autopsy and toxicology reports from the Vermont Office of Chief Medical Examiner, which could clarify the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to a death certificate obtained by PEOPLE, Nyweide was pregnant at the time of her passing, a revelation that has shocked her family and friends. Shelly Gibson, Nyweide's mother, confirmed that her daughter had been struggling with addiction and had attended multiple treatment centers throughout her youth. "I am aware she was using drugs. She had been for quite a while," Gibson shared, expressing her concerns that an accidental overdose may have contributed to her daughter's untimely demise.
Nyweide's body was located near a makeshift shelter made from downed trees, not far from a high school in Bennington. At the time of her death, a man was present with her; he is cooperating with the investigation but is not considered a suspect. The police have not ruled out the possibility of foul play, continuing to investigate various aspects of the case.
In a heartfelt online obituary, Nyweide's family described her as a kind and trusting individual, often vulnerable to being taken advantage of by others. "Sophie was a kind and trusting girl," the tribute read, noting that her art reflected the depth of her struggles and traumas. Her family had tried to support her through her challenges, but they expressed heartbreak over their inability to save her. "Even with those roadmaps, diagnoses, and her own revelations, those closest to her, plus therapists, law enforcement officers and others who tried to help her are heartbroken their efforts couldn’t save her from her fate," the obituary stated.
Nyweide's career began at a young age, with her first significant role in the 2006 film Bella. She gained further recognition for her performance in Mammoth, where she played the daughter of characters portrayed by Gael García Bernal and Michelle Williams. In 2010, she starred alongside Jessica Alba in An Invisible Sign, where she portrayed a girl coping with her mother’s terminal illness. Nyweide also appeared in the 2014 film Noah, directed by Darren Aronofsky, alongside Russell Crowe.
Despite her early success, Nyweide faced significant personal challenges. Her mother revealed that she had been in and out of treatment facilities until she turned 18, at which point Gibson could no longer legally force her to seek help. "While Sophie was in treatment, I was able to get to know several of her treatment friends, and it made me feel compelled to support an organization that would help anyone who had to deal with any sort of abuse," Gibson said, referencing the charity RAINN, which supports survivors of sexual violence. The family has encouraged donations to RAINN in Nyweide's memory.
In interviews, Gibson described her daughter as having an adventurous spirit and a passion for both acting and snowboarding. "Her life was a lot more than just those few years of doing movies," she said, recalling how Nyweide found joy in the creative process of acting. "She dreamed (more like demanded!) to be an actor, without ever knowing her mother was an actor, so she did that too with an ease we all marveled about." Gibson also noted that Nyweide was happiest on movie sets, where she felt a sense of safety and belonging.
The family is now grappling with the loss of a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, and friend. "Sophie. A life ended too soon. May it not be in vain. May we all learn from her brief life on earth and do better. Yes, we must all protect our children and do better," the obituary concluded.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a talented young actress whose life was cut short under tragic circumstances. Nyweide's story serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles many face behind the scenes, even those who seem to shine brightly in the spotlight.
