Rocket Stickney, a former U.S. Navy SEAL who recently left military service to protect high-profile clients, died last week at the age of 31. Stickney spent six years in the Navy SEALs, concluding his service in 2025. He then joined Gideon Risk Management, a global security firm that specializes in executive protection for celebrities and the ultra-wealthy.
Gideon Risk Management describes itself as providing "intelligent solutions to complex challenges" and "tailored services to meet your specific needs anywhere in the world." The company recruits exclusively from special operations forces and intelligence agencies, with staff drawn from units like Britain's SAS and the U.S. Army's 75th Ranger Regiment. Stickney led Gideon Risk's executive protection operations.
Stickney's family announced his death in a notice published in the Idaho Mountain Express, mourning their "devastating loss" and remembering him as a "sweet and kind person." His final Instagram post, on August 16, showed him on a beach with a spaniel.
Before his death, Stickney's social media activity included posts of him traveling on a private jet from Washington state to Arizona earlier in August. These posts also depicted him shooting at an indoor range and firing a rifle into a body of water.
Stickney had a public relationship with swimwear model and social media influencer Paris Ow-Yang, which began in December 2024. Ow-Yang, who has a significant following on TikTok and an OnlyFans account, was facing legal issues at the time of their relationship. In November 2024, she pleaded guilty to common assault, intimidation, and destroying property following an incident at her mother's home. Her legal team referenced Stickney as a stabilizing influence during her court proceedings. The couple reportedly parted ways by February 2025.
In parallel, Stickney had recently been cleared of a rape charge. He had been accused of rape in June 2023 in Sydney, Australia, and was under bail conditions that prevented him from leaving the country. He pleaded not guilty to the charge, which was ultimately withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions in November 2024. The reasons for the withdrawal were not publicly explained.
Stickney also served on the board of directors for East West Global Healing, a non-profit organization focused on mental health, particularly for first responders and military veterans. He stated on the organization's website that he aimed to support veterans in their healing process.
He held a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston in West Virginia. His work with Gideon Risk Management involved designing logistics, residential security, event protection, and threat assessments for high-profile clients. Stickney was described by former partners and family as a deeply caring individual whose mental health was affected by the allegations he faced.