The Sterling family released a statement Wednesday saying that Scott Sterling had been fighting Type 1 Diabetes prior to his death, which they called "a terrible tragedy."

Sterling, 31, was found dead on the couch in his Malibu apartment, officials said Wednesday.

Los Angeles County sheriff's detectives said evidence in the apartment seemed to suggest he may have  died of a drug overdose, but they would not know for sure until toxicology tests conducted by the coroner were completed in several weeks.

“Our son Scott has fought a long and valiant battle against Type 1 diabetes," said a statement released by the Sterling family. "His death is a terrible tragedy, the effects of which will be felt forever by our family and all those who knew and loved him. We sincerely appreciate the warm outpouring of sympathy and support from so many of our dear friends."

Homicide detectives were called to the apartment complex in the 22600 block of Pacific Coast Highway about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday after the body was found. It was not immediately known who reported the death nor how long he had been dead.

Sheriff's Department spokesman Steve Whitmore confirmed it was the body of Scott Sterling, who was found alone. Friends and family had not seen him for a couple of days, Whitmore said.

There were no signs of foul play in the death, officials said Wednesday.

The neighborhood was quiet outside the Malibu Beach Villas complex on Pacific Coast Highway on Wednesday.