While the formal obituary published in the Voice of the Valley did not list a cause of death to protect the family's privacy, public confirmations from his immediate family, including his brother, confirmed that Weste died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A Lasting Legacy
The story of Weste Erickson, as depicted on Terror in the Woods , has become intertwined with online folklore, leading some to confuse his personal story with cautionary tales about the dangers of the wilderness. Despite the lack of details surrounding his final days, his life as a curious explorer, a dedicated school employee, and a beloved member of his community is well-documented and is the true legacy he left behind.
Terror in the Woods requires "believers" to tell their stories. Whether the producers knew about Weste’s fragile mental state is the crux of the family’s pain. In an interview after the lawsuit filing, a family spokesperson said: “They gave him a monster to fight, but the real monster was in his head. And when that broke, his brother broke too.” how did weste erickson from terror in the woods die
: An avid outdoorsman, he grew up with a love for camping and hiking, hobbies that were central to the story he eventually shared on television. He was also an active member of the gaming community. Public Reaction and Legacy
passed away on January 23, 2017 , at his home in Auburn, Washington, at the age of 34. Official public records and his formal obituary did not release a specific medical cause of death. However, statements from close family members on social media later confirmed that his death was a tragic suicide. His sudden passing gained widespread public attention after an "In Memoriam" dedication placard aired at the conclusion of his episode on the paranormal documentary television series Terror in the Woods (also broadcast as These Woods Are Haunted ). The Terror in the Woods Connection While the formal obituary published in the Voice
Colleagues and family described him as a kind, compassionate, and witty individual who was deeply loved by students and staff. The Mystery Surrounding His Death
: His family and colleagues from Tahoma Middle School, where he worked as an IT specialist, described him as a kind, witty, and compassionate person who "went the extra mile" for others. Connection to "Terror in the Woods" Terror in the Woods requires "believers" to tell
Outside of his television appearance, Erickson worked as an IT specialist at Tahoma Middle School.
The show ends with an "In Memoriam" placard for Weste, which often prompts viewers to search for what happened to the "gentle soul" they saw on screen. Who Was Weste Erickson?