Joshua Fay Saunders, widely known as KingCobraJFS, a popular YouTuber and musician from Casper, Wyoming, passed away at the age of 34. He was found unresponsive in his apartment during a wellness check on August 21, 2025. The Natrona County Coroner's Office confirmed his death, with the cause still under investigation. Early reports and family statements suggest he likely died in his sleep, with doctors suspecting organ failure possibly related to liver damage. Saunders had a long history of health struggles, complicated further by his heavy alcohol consumption and the psychological impact of the recent deaths of a close friend and rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, whom he admired deeply. His father shared an emotional video stating that Joshua had faced relentless bullying since childhood but that his fans had made him feel valued.

KingCobraJFS became a cult figure on YouTube with a channel launched in 2011, where he attracted a loyal following with his gothic persona, music covers, food experiments, and unique crafts such as wand-making. His content captured his eclectic lifestyle, including candid rants, extreme drinking habits, and guitar performances. Despite his popularity, his openness about his Asperger’s syndrome and struggles with alcoholism exposed him to harsh online criticism and trolling. Many trolls exacerbated his issues by sending him alcohol during live streams, fueling his addiction. Saunders’ history also includes several controversies, including public intoxication arrests and eviction issues tied to his erratic behavior. Nonetheless, those who knew and followed him appreciated his authenticity and creative spirit.

The online community has been deeply affected by his passing, with fans and followers sharing tributes and reflecting on both his unique charm and the darker realities of internet fame. Social media has seen an outpouring of grief, with hashtags like #RIPKingCobra trending and Reddit forums filled with memories of his streams and discussions about his health and struggles. His father’s emotional message highlighted the lifelong harassment Joshua endured both online and offline, revealing the toll it took on his mental health. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the exact circumstances of his death, though the family has indicated that suicide is unlikely and that his lifestyle and health complications played significant roles.

Joshua Saunders was a polarizing figure whose life and career reflected the complex intersection of internet culture, mental health, and substance abuse. His prolific content—ranging from gothic music and DIY crafts to candid discussions of personal battles—earned him both devout fans and relentless critics. While his final videos showed him visibly unwell, fans admired his raw honesty and connection to his community. His story underscores the unforeseen pressures faced by internet personalities and the profound impact that digital harassment can have on mental and physical health. Saunders leaves behind a legacy of artistic creativity intertwined with cautionary aspects of online celebrity culture.