Los Angeles, California – Authorities in connection to the death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry from the acute effects of ketamine last year are moving closer to pressing charges, according to a law enforcement source. The investigation into Perry’s death is reportedly nearing its conclusion with officials suggesting that “multiple people” could face charges, pending a decision from the US Attorney’s Office.
Perry, who tragically passed away at the age of 54 in October 2023, was found unresponsive in his hot tub at his Pacific Palisades home. A toxicology report revealed that his death was caused by the acute effects of ketamine, leading to his drowning in the heated waters. Sources close to Perry mentioned that he was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, with his last session taking place a week and a half before his passing.
The autopsy released in December indicated that the level of ketamine in Perry’s blood was within the range used for general anesthesia during surgery, listing it as the primary cause of death. Authorities ruled his death as an accident, with no foul play suspected, although drowning, coronary artery disease, and buprenorphine effects were noted as contributing factors.
Investigations into Perry’s death involve multiple agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department, the US Drug Enforcement Agency, and the US Postal Inspection Service. Federal postal inspectors are utilizing tracking software and industry expertise to determine the source of the drug that led to Perry’s death, as well as whether narcotics were sent to him through the mail.
Perry’s struggles with substance abuse, which began after a jet ski accident in 1997, have been well-documented. Despite numerous attempts at sobriety, including attending thousands of AA meetings and entering rehab 15 times, Perry had announced in 2021 that he had overcome his addiction. The authorities are now focused on finding the individuals responsible for supplying the ketamine to Perry, aiming to bring closure to this tragic chapter in the actor’s life.