Captain Mark Howard, who helmed the Ionian Princess on the first season of Below Deck Mediterranean, has died. He was 65.
His death was confirmed by Bravo on Friday, Oct. 29. The network said in a statement shared to the reality show's official Instagram page, "Our thoughts and sincerest sympathies are with the family and friends of the respected Captain Mark Howard. As the captain of the first season of 'Below Deck Med,' he will always be remembered for his many contributions and mentorship and will forever remain part of the Bravo family."
A cause of death for Howard has not been released.
Per Us Weekly, the Fernandina Beach Police Department stated that Howard's wife Susan found his body on Oct. 27 after returning to their Florida home from a trip. The outlet obtained a police report stating that Howard seemed to have died several days prior to the discovery of his body.
Howard kicked off Below Deck Mediterranean, a spin-off of the widely popular Below Deck, in 2016. He was replaced by Captain Sandy Yawn for season two when the show shifted focus to the Sirocco luxury yacht crew.
In the wake of Howard's passing, his former co-stars have taken to social media to offer their condolences.
"RIP Captain Mark Howard," Tiffany Copeland wrote on Twitter, sharing two group photos that featured herself with Howard. "You were a joy to be around."
"Rest In Peace my friend. You were a great captain, friend and colleague," Hannah Ferrier shared in an Instagram tribute. "Always the gentleman. You will be missed."
Meanwhile, Julia d'Albert Pusey wrote on her Instagram Story, "What sad news to hear of Mark's passing, my thoughts are with his family and friends."
E! News has reached out to Fernandina Police for comment.