LOS ANGELES—Veteran adult performer Sophia Leone was found dead at her home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on March 1, her agent Robert Moran from 101 Modeling told AVN Saturday.
Leone was 26.
Detectives from the Albuquerque Police Department are investigating her death as a possible robbery and homicide, according to local news reports.
Sophia’s stepdad Mike Romero has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with the costs of her memorial, Moran confirmed.
Romero’s GoFundMe message reads:
“On behalf of her Mother & Family, It is with a heavy heart that I have to Share the news of our beloved Sophia’s Passing. The Sudden loss of Sophia has left her family and Friends devastated and in Shock, on top of The difficult process of grieving and Seeking Justice for Sophia the family is also facing the Financial burden that they were not prepared for.
“Sophia was found unresponsive in her apartment home on March 1st, 2024 by her family. A investigation by local Police into the cause of death is still currently on going.
“I am reaching out to all of Sophia’s supporters and the community during this incredibly difficult time. Sophia without question deserves the absolute best memorial and you can help us. Any donation no matter the amount will go straight towards the costs associated with the investigation, Funeral Expense’s, and any other costs that may arise as the family works through this heartbreak.
“Sophia was a beloved Daughter, Sister, Grand Daughter, Niece and Friend. She had a deep love for all animals, specifically her 3 pets. She enjoyed traveling and always found ways to make everyone around her smile.
“As her Stepfather, I want to personally thank you for your kindness and generosity during this difficult time. Sophia will be deeply missed but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. May she rest in eternal peace.”
A native of Florida who began her performing career in 2015 when she was 18, Leone amassed more than 370 credits, according to IAFD. She worked for just about every major studio in adult along the way, including multiple performances for Brazzers, New Sensations, Jules Jordan Video, Evil Angel, Girlfriends Films, Team Skeet, Reality Kings and Bang Bros.
She was booked several times this month in LA, according to Moran, who said he last communicated with her on Feb. 19.
Moran said his team had been attempting to reach Sophia since last week as she was due to travel to LA for work but her phone was going straight to voicemail.
He said Sophia was a pleasure to represent.
“She was awesome, fantastic,” Moran said. “A bubbly, upbeat, positive human being.”
Brian Berke, who founded AMA Modeling in 2004 in South Florida and later co-founded 101 Modeling in LA, posted on X, “At 18 years old you started with me at AMA and now at 26 I have to say goodbye. We had such an amazing bond. Always reminding each other how much we cared. I was supposed to be your guardian angel. A piece of me is gone. I love you Sophia. Brian."