Gypsy Rose Blanchard, previously incarcerated for her mother’s murder, has spoken up following the death of her former partner and father of her child, Ken Urker, who was found deceased in his Raceland, Louisiana residence on his birthday. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating the incident and has not identified any signs of foul play at this stage.
Authorities were alerted to check on Urker when he failed to show up for work after expressing suicidal thoughts. Upon entering his home, officials discovered Urker’s lifeless body along with drug-related items and a holstered firearm. The cause of death remains undetermined.
Blanchard expressed uncertainty regarding the circumstances of Urker’s passing, mentioning his recent mental struggles. She highlighted the intense online scrutiny and bullying that Urker faced during their relationship, suggesting it significantly impacted him.
The couple’s relationship began in 2017 when Urker reached out to Blanchard while she was in prison, inspired by the HBO documentary detailing the tragic story of Blanchard’s mother, Dee Dee. Dee Dee was suspected of having a psychological disorder that led her to abuse her daughter for years.
Blanchard and her then-boyfriend orchestrated Dee Dee’s murder, resulting in her imprisonment for second-degree murder. Despite a tumultuous engagement with Urker, including a brief separation and subsequent reunion, they welcomed a daughter together in December 2024 named Aurora Rain Urker.
Blanchard, after Urker’s demise, described him as a devoted parent and her true love. She emphasized his irreplaceable role in her life and their child’s upbringing. Blanchard recently shared her story on a podcast, reflecting on her challenging past and striving to overcome her traumatic history. CBC News has reached out for additional statements from Blanchard’s past representatives.