Summer Bay fans are reeling as devastating fictional news emerges surrounding a former Home and Away cast member, with police now confirming that the body discovered in a coastal apartment earlier this week belongs to former actor Liam Rourke, a one-time rising star of the long-running series.

Authorities revealed the confirmation late last night after two days of intense speculation, following reports that a man matching Rourke’s description had been found alone in a rented beachfront flat. While investigators are urging the public to remain patient as they work through the early stages of the inquiry, they stress that the cause of death is still unclear and “currently being clarified by authorities.”

Rourke, known to fans for his role as troubled teen Evan Tate nearly a decade ago, stepped away from acting several years back to pursue work behind the camera. Despite his departure, he maintained a loyal following who continued to track his sporadic creative projects and occasional convention appearances.

According to police, officers were called to the apartment after a neighbour noticed mail piling up outside the door and reported concerns about a strong smell coming from inside. When no one responded to repeated knocks, investigators made entry and discovered Rourke’s body. No immediate signs of foul play have been reported, though officials caution that they are “not ruling anything out until all examinations are complete.”

Those close to the fictional former actor are said to be “stunned and shattered,” with friends describing him as a private, thoughtful figure who had been working quietly on a personal documentary project in the weeks leading up to his death. He had reportedly checked into the coastal apartment to focus on writing and editing, hoping the isolation would help sharpen his creativity.

A production source from Home and Away tells us the cast and crew who worked with Rourke years earlier were hit hard by the news. “He was young, talented, and incredibly gentle,” the insider says. “Even after he left the show, people here kept tabs on him and hoped he’d come back to acting someday. This has really shaken everyone.”

Online tributes began pouring in within hours of the police announcement, with fans sharing favourite scenes, behind-the-scenes clips, and memories of meeting him at fan events. Many recalled Rourke’s portrayal of Evan as one of the most emotionally raw teen storylines of its era, cementing his place in the show’s legacy despite his relatively short run.

Police expect to release further details once the coroner completes preliminary examinations, though they warn that may still take several days. For now, the mystery surrounding Rourke’s final hours remains unresolved, leaving both fans and former colleagues clinging to painful uncertainty.

As Summer Bay prepares to honour one of its lost stars, the entertainment world is reminded once more how fragile life can be — and how deeply the legacy of a performer can linger long after they’ve stepped away from the spotlight.