Mountain Men Cast Members Who are Dead or In Jail In 2025

The reality TV series Mountain Men on the History Channel has captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide by portraying an authentic lifestyle of self-sufficiency in the wilderness. From the icy mountains of Montana to the deep forests of North Carolina, each character in the show brings a unique story of resilience, determination, and passion for freedom. However, along with the show’s popularity, countless rumors have spread across social media regarding the deaths or legal troubles of some cast members. In this article, we’ll uncover the truth about some of the most notable names: Preston Roberts, Jason Hawk, Eustace Conway, Tom Oar, and Kyle Bell.

1. Preston Roberts – A Loyal Friend Who Left Too Soon

July 24, 2017, was a heartbreaking day for the Mountain Men community when Preston Roberts passed away at age 60 due to complications from an inoperable liver tumor. His death occurred just three weeks after the diagnosis, leaving family, friends, and fans in shock.

Preston was not only an exceptional hunter but also a teacher and a devoted friend to Eustace Conway for over 35 years. Together, they co-founded the Turtle Island Preserve, a sanctuary where Preston shared his knowledge of sustainable living with generations of learners. After his passing, Eustace expressed his gratitude on social media for the overwhelming support, revealing that more than $110,000 in donations poured in to help Preston’s family.

In addition, a memorial scholarship was established in Preston’s name to continue his mission of education and environmental stewardship. Posts from Turtle Island have emphasized that Preston’s spirit remains present in every structure, ceremony, and teaching moment at the preserve.

2. Jason Hawk – A Symbol of Strength and Courage Gone Forever

Another devastating loss for Mountain Men occurred on January 28, 2025, when Jason Hawk passed away at the age of 49 after a long and grueling battle with cancer. Jason was renowned for his blacksmithing skills and primitive lifestyle alongside his family in the rugged Ozarks of Arkansas.

Jason joined the series in 2016 and appeared until 2021, captivating viewers with his survival skills and warm personality as a husband and father. His cancer diagnosis came in late 2020, and despite multiple rounds of chemotherapy and surgery, his condition continued to deteriorate.

In his final months, Jason chose to return home and spend his remaining time in peace with his wife Mary and their children. Mary’s heartfelt obituary described a man who lived fully with passion and love. Jason wasn’t just a reality star—he was an inspiration for those who believe in simplicity and living close to nature.

3. Eustace Conway – The Man of the Mountains Facing Legal Storms

Contrary to rumors of his death, Eustace Conway—one of the show’s central figures—is very much alive and still running the Turtle Island Preserve. However, his life has not been without challenges. In 2012, Eustace faced a series of legal troubles related to building code violations and land disputes with neighbors.

Turtle Island was temporarily shut down because its traditional structures did not meet state construction standards. To make matters worse, Eustace was arrested on trespassing charges during a boundary dispute. After months of legal struggles, the issue was resolved when the North Carolina legislature passed a law exempting primitive structures from building codes in June 2013.

Despite these setbacks, Eustace remained committed to teaching natural living skills. Now in his 60s, he continues to be a prominent face of the show and an icon of off-grid living.

4. Tom Oar – A Living Legend Despite Rumors

Rumors of Tom Oar’s death spread quickly among fans, but the truth is that he is still alive and well at 81. According to family updates and social media posts, Tom now lives with his wife Nancy, enjoying a quieter life after leaving the harsh conditions of Montana’s Yaak Valley.

Tom appeared on the series from its debut season in 2012 and remained a key figure for many years, becoming one of the most beloved personalities on Mountain Men. His expertise in tanning hides and crafting traditional gear showcased both artistry and perseverance.

After decades in the wilderness, Tom and Nancy eventually moved to Florida to enjoy retirement. Although no longer on the show, Tom remains a celebrated legend among survivalists and fans of the series.

5. Kyle Bell – The Mystery After Leaving the Show

Unlike the others, rumors about Kyle Bell stem mainly from his sudden disappearance from public view. Kyle appeared in Seasons 3 and 4 with his son Ben, winning fans’ admiration for his hunting skills and heartwarming father-son bond.

After leaving the show in 2016, Kyle and Ben launched a project called Survival Sense, an online platform teaching survival skills. Unfortunately, the project ended abruptly, and Kyle vanished from social media, sparking speculation that he had died. To date, there has been no verified information about Kyle’s current status, making him one of the show’s most enigmatic former stars.

Mountain Men – More Than Just a TV Show

Since its premiere in 2012, Mountain Men has been more than entertainment—it is a tribute to resilience, independence, and humanity’s deep connection with nature. The stories of Preston, Jason, Eustace, Tom, and Kyle remind us of the value of simplicity and the power of determination in today’s modern world.

Although some have passed on and others have chosen quieter lives, their legacy continues to inspire millions who dream of a life of freedom and self-reliance.