Darrell Sheets’ ‘Storage Wars’ co-star Rene Nezhoda raises ‘cyberbullying’ concerns, sparks probe

LAKE HAVASU CITY, ARIZONA: TV personality Rene Nezhoda has spoken out following the death of his ‘Storage Wars’ co-star Darrell Sheets, who was found dead at his home. Local police confirmed on Wednesday, April 22, that Sheets had died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

In a video shared on Instagram after the news broke, Nezhoda reflected on their long-standing relationship and addressed the circumstances surrounding Sheets’ death. He also used the moment to speak about cyberbullying and the personal challenges people may face beyond what is seen on television.

Rene Nezhoda opens up on friendship with Darrell Sheets and online harassment concerns

Nezhoda began his Instagram video by acknowledging the difficulty of addressing the situation, stating, “This was not an easy video to shoot. Unfortunately, Darrell Sheets took his own life. So he passed away.” He addressed public perceptions of their relationship, noting that although they appeared as rivals on ‘Storage Wars,’ the competition was limited to the show.

“I know a lot of you guys think we hated each other because we competed a lot on the show. And you know, we had our moments. We had our run-ins because we were both competitors,” he said. Nezhoda emphasized that despite their competitive dynamic, they maintained a friendship over the years.

“So deep down me and Darrell were friends, we talked every now and then,” he explained, adding that Sheets was deeply devoted to his family, including his son and granddaughter Zoie.

He also alleged that Sheets had been experiencing cyberbullying prior to his death and used his message to call for accountability. “Rest in peace Darrell Sheets. Also I know Darrell would want something positive out of this, so he had a guy that [was] really really tormenting him lately. Cyberbullying,” Nezhoda said. 

Nezhoda further urged people to recognize the impact of online behavior, stating, “Just because you watch us on television, doesn’t mean you know us.” He expanded his remarks, encouraging people to intervene when they witness bullying.

“If you have somebody in your life that thinks it’s funny to cyberbully other people… slap ’em in the back of the head. Make them become a better human being,” he said.

Investigation details, career legacy, and tributes to Darrell Sheets

The Lake Havasu City Police Department pronounced Sheets dead at the scene, and the investigation was taken over by the department’s Criminal Investigations Unit. His body was later transferred to the Mohave County Medical Examiner’s office.

Sergeant Kyle Ridgway, public information officer for the police department also acknowledged cyberbullying concerns, saying, “We are aware of these cyberbullying accusations and that is a part of the active investigation.” Sheets was widely known for his role on A&E’s Storage Wars, where professional buyers bid on abandoned storage lockers.

Nicknamed “The Gambler,” he became a fan favorite for his high-risk bidding approach and appeared alongside his son Brandon. Over his career, he uncovered notable finds, including four Picassos and what has been described as the world’s most valuable comic book collection.

A&E also issued a statement saying, “We are saddened by the passing of a beloved member of our Storage Wars family, Darrell ‘The Gambler’ Sheets. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Sheets had previously shared health struggles in 2019 after suffering a heart attack and was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and a lung condition. He retired from the series in 2023 and later opened an antique shop in Arizona named 'Havasu Show Me Your Junk.'