The head of the food network, Carl Ruiz, 44 years old

Star chef of the food network Carl Ruiz is dead … according to his closest friends in business.

Carl would have died Saturday night of an alleged heart attack, according to his friend and a social media personality: Matt Farah. Matt also said that Carl died peacefully in his sleep.

Guy Fieri also commented on Carl's death by writing on Twitter … "I'm sorry my friend Chef Carl Ruiz is gone, I do not have words to describe how he was a great friend to me and My family's ability to make me laugh and smile in all circumstances has only been overshadowed by his leadership skills. "

He added: "Over the years, I have met a lot of great people, but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million." Carl "The Cuban" Ruiz will always live in my heart and in that of all those who loved him "

Over the years, CR had made several alliances with Guy, having participated in three of his shows – "Guy's Grocery Games", "Guy's Ranch Kitchen" and "Diners, Drive-In and Dives" – in several episodes and even serve as judge on some.

He was also close with a ton of other NF meetings, including various Iron Chefs who participated in the popular program. Food Network regulars Jet Tila and Ben Ford also commented on Ruiz's death, sending his condolences online with a few kind words.

Carl – who was Cuban-American – was recognized as an expert on Spanish cuisine. He opened his restaurant, La Cubana, in New York just in June of this year. According to his restaurant's website, he has helped open countless restaurants during his more than 25 years of experience in the game of food … and has also made several appearances to the television.

He was 44 years old.