Investigation into Matthew Perry’s Death Continues by LAPD and DEA

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The tragic passing of beloved actor Matthew Perry, known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” remains under investigation more than six months after his sudden death at age 54. Perry passed away on October 28, 2023, from the acute effects of the anesthetic ketamine.

Los Angeles Police Department Captain Scot Williams confirmed in an email to Entertainment Weekly that the investigation into Perry’s death has not been closed. The LAPD, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United States Postal Inspection Service, continues to examine the circumstances surrounding his passing.

“On October 29, 2023, an autopsy of Mr. Perry was performed by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. On December 15, 2023, the results of the autopsy indicated that Mr. Perry died from the ‘acute effects of ketamine,'” stated the LAPD. “Based on the Medical Examiner’s findings, the Los Angeles Police Department, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service, has continued its investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Perry’s death.”

Perry was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home and pronounced dead at the scene on October 28, 2023. Initial reports indicated no foul play. However, the autopsy revealed additional contributing factors to his death, including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder.

The autopsy report obtained by Entertainment Weekly also noted that Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy, which is used to address conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and substance abuse issues. Despite this, the report clarified that the ketamine found in Perry’s system was not from his most recent treatment session, which occurred about a week and a half prior to his death. The cause of death was attributed to an “unknown route of drug intake,” with the primary lethal effects stemming from “cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression.”

The continued investigation seeks to uncover further details surrounding Perry’s untimely death, ensuring that all circumstances are thoroughly examined.