"I cant believe I am typing these words," acting CEO Nicola Kilner reportedly wrote in a company-wide email over the weekend. "Brandon has passed away over the weekend. Heartbroken doesnt come close to how I, and how I know many of you will be feeling."
Kilner also wrote that all the brand's offices, warehouses, factories and stores would close temporarily so employees can "take the time to cry with sadness, smile at the good times we had, reflect on what his genius built and hug your loved ones that little harder."
"We are all in disbelief and shock but I will be in touch again very soon," Kilner added.
Truaxe founded the cult-favorite beauty company in 2013 and developed several brands under its umbrella, including the wildly popular The Ordinary, which offers a wide array of skincare products around a $10 price point and sparked $300 million in sales.
However, Truaxe gained notoriety through his bizarre social media presence, which included erratic posts and videos including one that was posted shortly before his ouster in which he claimed the company was riddled with " major criminal activity. "
Este Lauder, previously a minority investor in the company, won a request October 2018 from an Ontario court for Truaxe's removal. Truaxe lost access to the brand's social media accounts, was dismissed from his position on Deciem's board of directors, and was stripped of his ability to hire and fire employees, as according to the BBC .
In his place, Este Lauder placed Deciem's co-CEO Nicola Kilner to assume Truaxe's responsibilities.
Multiple reports suspected Truaxe was plagued with and once hospitalized for mental health issues. The founder has denied concerns about his mental health, though admitted to some past drug use.
Amanda Krause contributed to this report.
