Trigger warning: This article mentions death.
Dayle Hayden, who starred in films such as Spermula, Cyborg and Substitute Teacher, has died aged 76 from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The gas leak occurred at the home of Buffy the Vampire Slayer alumnus Mark Blucas in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, the Solebury Township Police Department reports.
On Friday, December 27, police found Hayden’s lifeless body on the second floor of his home. Reportedly, a 76-year-old man was also found unconscious on the first floor. According to People magazine, first responders took the man to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he was identified as Walter Blucas.
According to the police, he is currently undergoing treatment in the hospital. Later, a police investigation revealed that “faulty flues and exhaust pipes on the gas heating system” caused the gas leak. The New Hope Eagle Volunteer Fire Company, which was on scene, reportedly detected high levels of carbon monoxide in the property.
Additionally, a Solebury Township police officer and two physicians were taken to the hospital due to excessive exposure to carbon monoxide. Bucks County Deputy Coroner Eliot Gross was the first to confirm Hayden’s death in a statement to USA TODAY.
He also claimed that a toxicology report is currently underway to determine the official cause of death of the actress. As ABC reports, Hayden was alone when the incident occurred and no other family members were affected by the unfortunate incident.
Hayden notably appeared on Disney’s The World’s Greatest Athlete and the North Dallas Forty with Nick Nolte. She was also the face of the cover of the 1973 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. She was also recognized as one of the top models in the 70s.
Her daughter Ryan shared a long, heartfelt tribute to her mother, a “bright light” that has now dimmed. “I have no doubt that he is shining, as always, where it is needed most. She was everyone’s biggest champion. An inspiration to many,” he added.
