Sweeten’s sister Madylin, who also played his older sister on the show, released the following statement:
“This morning a terrible family tragedy has occurred. We are devastated to report that our beloved brother, son, and friend, Sawyer Sweeten, took his own life. He was weeks away from his 20th birthday. At this sensitive time, our family requests privacy and we beg of you to reach out to the ones you love.”
According to the Toronto Sun, Sweeten was visiting family in Texas when he shot himself on the porch. He played Geoffrey Barone on the show alongside his twin brother Sullivan, who played the character Michael. The brothers were only 16 months old when they first appeared on screen. The show ran on CBS from 1996 to 2005 when it was canceled.
Ray Romano, who played the father on Everybody Loves Raymond, stated he was “shocked and terribly saddened” over the news. “He was a wonderful and sweet kid to be around. Just a great energy whenever he was there. My heart breaks for him, his family, and his friends during this very difficult time.”
Sweeten was born in Brownwood, Texas where the incident occurred. His acting portfolio also includes the Even Stevens television series and the movie Frank McKlusky, C.I.
