TV pitchman Billy Mays found dead in Tampa home

TBO.com staff

Nationally known TV ad pitchman Billy Mays, 50, was found dead this morning in his Tampa home, the Tampa Police Department reported.

Mays was found unresponsive by his wife and the Tampa Fire Rescue pronounced him dead at 7:45 a.m., the report said.

There were no signs of forced entry to the residence and no foul play is suspected, police said.

The Medical Examiner's Office is expected to complete the autopsy by Monday afternoon.

"Although Billy lived a public life, we don't anticipate making any public statements over the next couple of days," Mays' wife Deborah said in a statement the police released.

"Our family asks that you respect our privacy during these difficult times."

Mays rose to for promoting OxyClean, Orange Glo, Kaboom and other household products like the Mighty Putty glue.

In April, he launched a new reality series, "Pitchmen," on the Discovery Channel to show viewers new gadgets such as the Impact Gel shoe insert; the Tool Band-it, a magnetized armband that holds tools while you work; and the Soft Buns portable seat cushion.

Mays was on U.S. Airways Flight 1241 when it blew its front tires as it landed Saturday, forcing the airport to shut down the busy north-south runway, according to authorities.

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