Sam Sarpong's Family Speaks Out After Actor's Suicide; Cops Say They Spent 7 Hours on Bridge

New details are emerging about actor Sam Sarpong's apparent suicide on Monday, October 26. According to CNN, the 40-year-old's family is speaking out after his death, while police revealed that they spent seven hours talking to the London native before he jumped off of a bridge in Pasadena, CA, where he lived.

An eyewitness discovered Sarpong on the Colorado Street Bridge and called police. The Department Crisis Negotiation Team tried to negotate with Sarpong, as family members arrived shortly after giving the police information about the actor and model's emotional state.

"Tragically, after approximately seven hours of communication, the male jumped from the bridge into the Arroyo," the statement revealed. "He was pronounced deceased by Pasadena Fire Paramedics at 3:52 PM."

MStars News previously reported that Sarpong wasn't just an actor, but was also a successful model, walking in runways and modeling for brands including Tommy Hilfiger. Sarpong acted in the TV series Bones and Boston Public. He also starred in the hit 2003 teen film Love Don't Cost a Thing.

Sarpong's death is currently being investigated as a suicide but the toxicology test will determine the official cause. Those tests haven't been revealed yet.

"It is sad and troubling when an individual has become so despondent that he or she feels their only option is to end their life," Police Chief Phillip Sanchez said in a comment. "These incidents can often have a significant impact on the victim's loved ones, first responders, and the community as a whole. My prayers go out to the family."

After his apparent suicide, Sarpong's family released a statement read:

"It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong, Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation and no additional details are known at this time. Information about final arrangements will be forthcoming."

The statement continued, "The family appreciates the thoughts prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request their privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time. Samuel Sarpong Jr. is survived by his father Samuel Sarpong Sr., and his sister June Sarpong. Sam Sarpong was 40 years old."

Sarpong co-hosted alongside Wilmer Valderamma for MTV's show, Yo Momma. Valderamma paid tribute to his late friend via Instagram where he wrote: "I am so sad & so confused.. Sam did it all, believed in dreaming bigger than anyone around him.. We made memories together that will last us forever, thank you for sharing your talent with me and the world.. You were a light everywhere you went and I couldn't be more proud of the journey you traveled.. You just left us too early Sam.. We will miss you and pray for you.. Once again thank you for all those years you dedicated to our show, we couldn't have done it without you!"

Valderamma's tribute also informed others out there struggling to find someone to talk to. He continued, "Find your peace my brother! And to everyone in a dark place.. PLEASE, please talk to someone.. Anyone.. Trust me that we WILL listen.. You are not alone, there are so many people that feel the same darkness, let's help one another, let us shine hope on all those that need our understanding!! Reach out to someone and make your first step towards living a life you deserve.My prayers and heart are with family and friends that were blessed to know his beautiful soul #RIPSamSarpong"

Before he died, Sarpong had recently finished filming American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson, which is set to premiere in 2016.

The actor's sister, June is also in showbiz. She's an English television presenter. 

The actors death is just one out of a number of suicides this year. Everybody Loves Raymond star, Sawyer Sweeten, died back in April at the age of 19 of an suspected suicide. MStars News previously reported that Jim Carrey's ex-girlfriend, Cathriona White committed suicide after the former couple broke up. Former NFL linebacker, Adrian Robinson Jr. was also found dead earlier this year from an apparent suicide.

In the video below, Sarpong talked about his career as a model where he finally realized that he was a top supermodel after working for Tommy Hilfiger.

RIP Sam Sarpong.

If you or someone you know are having issues with depression, and suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.