Authorities Launch Criminal Investigation into Matthew Perry’s Death

Authorities have officially launched a criminal investigation into the death of Matthew Perry, the beloved actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom ‘Friends.’ Perry passed away on 28yh October last year at his home in California, aged 54.

The cause of death was determined to be the acute effects of the anaesthetic ketamine. According to his autopsy report, the high levels of ketamine found in his system caused both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression, ultimately leading to his death.

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The Los Angeles Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration are now working together to investigate how Perry came to have such high levels of ketamine in his body and how he obtained the drug. In addition to ketamine, the autopsy also noted drowning, coronary artery disease and the presence of buprenorphine—a medication used to treat opioid addiction—as contributing factors to his death. Initially, his death was ruled an accident with no signs of foul play.

Matthew Perry was candid about his lifelong struggles with drugs and alcohol, detailing his journey in his 2022 memoir He had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy, with his last session occurring just over a week before his death. However, the autopsy clarified that the ketamine in his system at the time of death could not have been from this therapy, as the drug’s half-life is only three to four hours or less.

The investigation aims to uncover the circumstances that led to Perry having such a dangerous amount of ketamine in his system and ensure that any potential wrongdoing is addressed. Fans and loved ones continue to mourn the loss of the actor, remembering him for his humour, talent, and openness about his battles.