Street Outlaws Mechanic Christopher 'Kentucky' Ellis, 39, Found Dead in His Home

chris ellis/instagram Chris Ellis

Christopher Ellis, best known by his nickname "Kentucky" on Discovery Channel's Street Outlaws, has died at the age of 39.

The car mechanic was found dead at his home in Oklahoma City on Sept. 9.

Authorities discovered Ellis in his home surrounded by a liquor bottle and a syringe "with a small amount of dark liquid inside it consistent with heroin," an incident report obtained by PEOPLE said.

Ellis' roommate and two friends told police that they had not heard from him for two days, according to the report. The roommate told authorities that he had previously tried checking up on Ellis, but his door was closed and locked.

The two friends told police that they were aware Ellis had struggled with alcohol and drug use, the report said.

Police said that foul play was not suspected, and that the medical examiner responded to the scene.

Chris Ellis/instagram Chris Ellis

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TMZ was first to report the news of Ellis' death. An initial autopsy was inconclusive and a toxicology report is pending, TMZ reported.

A spokesperson for the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

Raised in Pendleton County in Kentucky, Ellis was originally a cast member on the first season of Street Outlaws but continued to make appearances as a mechanic on the show until 2018.

"A hard worker and quick learner, Chris excelled in working with his hands at multiple trades, but eventually settled on a career as a street-racing auto mechanic," his obituary reads. "He became known for his dedication to his job and his quick sense of humor at Midwest Street Cars Automotive in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma."

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In addition to working on cars, Ellis enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors, according to the tribute.

"He was generous and kind, and knew exactly how to make the people he loved smile," his obit reads. "Chris was a dearly-loved brother, son, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him."

Ellis is survived by his mother Loleta Sullins and his six siblings.

A funeral service has been scheduled for Friday.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please contact the SAMHSA substance abuse helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.