Todd Meadows’ mother has issued a statement after the 25-year-old’s death.
Todd rose to wider recognition through Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, a series that highlights the high-risk realities faced by fishermen working at sea.
Last month, Todd reportedly fell overboard and died. The Coast Guard has since opened an investigation into the incident.
In a social media post confirming the news, Captain Rick Shelford described the day as a devastating loss for the crew.
“February 25, 2026 was the most tragic day in the history of the Aleutian Lady on the Bering Sea. We lost our brother, Todd Meadows,” Captain Rick Shelford said in a social media statement, confirmed the news of Todd’s death.
He said Todd had only recently joined them but quickly became part of the team.
“Todd was the newest member of our crew, he quickly became family. His love for fishing and his strong work ethic earned everyone’s respect right away.”
Shelford also remembered Todd’s upbeat presence, saying his smile was “contagious” and that the crew would never forget his laugh.
Following Todd’s death, his mother, Angela Meadows, has asked that the moments surrounding the incident not be shown on television. According to Todd’s bunkmate, cameras were reportedly recording at the time.
Speaking to TMZ, Angela said: “We don’t want to see any footage from the accident and do not want Discovery to air any of that footage or make money off of our son’s death.”
She added: “We hope they only air good things of Todd on that boat,” Angela added.
TMZ also reports that Angela has requested access to more positive clips from Todd’s time on the vessel, hoping to keep memories of him doing the work he loved.
Angela also said the family is seeking clarity about what happened.
“We don’t want to put the blame on anyone, but someone has to take responsibility,” she said. “We will have justice for Todd.”
In the aftermath, a GoFundMe has been launched to support Todd’s loved ones, raising more than $45,000 so far. The fundraiser says the money is intended to help provide for his three sons and assist with funeral costs.
Part of the bio reads: “This unimaginable loss has left his children without their father, his parents without their son, his siblings without their brother and his family broken. As the family navigates this heartbreaking time, we are raising funds to help support his three boys, assist with funeral expenses, and help ease the financial burden in the months ahead.
“Any donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward honoring his life and ensuring his boys are cared for in the way he would have wanted. If you are unable to give, please keep our family in your prayers and his name alive like he wanted.”
You can donate to the page here.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].