‘My 600-lb Life’ Star James “L.B.” Bonner Reportedly Battled Coming to Terms with His Leg Amputation Before Alleged Suicide

This is heartbreaking. James “L.B.” Bonner tragically passed away from a gunshot wound on Aug. 2. The 30-year-old My 600-lb Life star’s death has been ruled a suicide, according to TMZ. The coroner’s report allegedly said that he was killed by a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. After making a welfare check, police officials allegedly found the reality star, who appeared on the sixth season of the hit TLC show, in a ditch in a park located in Lexington, SC. 

James was a fan-favorite on the show, and he also had one of the most inspiring comebacks. After losing his leg due to a horrible ATV accident in 2013, he found himself turning to food and alcohol for comfort. James was up to 650 pounds at a point, but he later dieted, hit the gym and underwent lap band surgery. The reality star also became sober and was reportedly near 200 pounds before he died. His friends mentioned how proud they were of him.

As it turns out, however, despite all the time that had passed, it’s the loss of his leg that may have contributed to his tragic suicide. “I knew him when I lived in South Carolina,” a source close to James told Radar Online. “He was a bouncer at nightclubs we used to go to. Also, both of us are amputees. Both of us are also or were also members of the support group where you can speak to other issues that you’re going through.”

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“A lot of amputees think that they can’t do everything they used to do or get depressed or feel like someone would never want them. I’ve been lucky. I’ve always had the mentality that if someone tells me I can’t do something then I’m going to do it anyway with or without two legs. I think he tried to have that mentality, but with everything else he was dealing with…” the source added. 

Another friend of James’ also opened up about his sudden death. “Haven’t heard exactly what happened, but I keep seeing people say something about depression is real,” she said. “And I know his dad has been sick also. This is so sad and so unexpected. I thought he was doing really well with his new job and girlfriend. Not to mention his weight loss and upcoming surgery.”

Fans have been sharing their kind words on his Facebook account after hearing of his passing. “I truly admired him, and he will always be in my heart. Life is so precious. My heart breaks for his family. Rest in peace,” one wrote. “My gosh L.B.! I’m so very sad to hear about you passing away. I hope you find peace somehow. We will miss you,” another commented. Our hearts go out to James and his loved ones during this very tough time.

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