John Lafia co-writer of the screenplay for the horror film Child’s Play and director of Child’s Play 2 died on April 29. He was 63.

The cause of death was suicide, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner-coroner’s office.

Lafia’s first feature film was The Blue Iguana, which he wrote and directed as well as producing the soundtrack. It was selected to screen at a special midnight showing in the Palais des Festivals at the 1988 Cannes Film Festival.

Lafia co-wrote the screenplay for Child’s Play (1988) and was credited with coining the name “Chucky” and dialog such as “Hi, I’m Chucky, wanna play?” Lafia went on to direct Child’s Play 2(1990), followed by Man’s Best Friend (1993).

He is survived by his children, Tess and Kane, and his ex-wife, Beverly.

If you or someone you know might be at risk of suicide, please call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people in suicidal crisis or distress.