Lilo & Stitch star Daveigh Chase’s died of AIDS, coroner confirms

She died earlier this month

Chase, who voiced Lilo in Disney's animated film Lilo & Stitch died in hospital on June 16, aged 35.

Now, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has confirmed that her cause of death was AIDS.

It also listed "chronic polysubstance use" as her secondary cause of death.

The manner of death was ruled "natural".

Chase's other credits included voicing Chihiro in the English-dubbed version of Japanese animation Spirited Away.

She also starred in the cable drama Big Love and horror film The Ring.

Her father, John David Schwallier, told the New York Times she was homeless and living in LA with her boyfriend before her death.

Chase faced several health problems in the months leading up to her death.

She had only been admitted to hospital recently for severe malnutrition.

As her condition deteriorated, she was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, along with several severe systemic bloodstream infections.

Chase was then informed that she had AIDS and doctors told her that she did not have long to live.

Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, launched a GoFundMe earlier this month to help her "find comfort and peace".

The fundraiser also detailed the struggles Chase had been facing post-acting, such as strained relationships with her family, systemic bullying, and housing instability.

"After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA.

"When we met, I promised to protect her and give her the love and comfort she deserved. Together, we found moments of happiness and hope."