Arrest Made in Matthew Perry’s Death Due to Ketamine: Reports

An individual has been arrested in connection with the death of Matthew Perry, best known for his role in the popular television show “Friends.” Authorities have confirmed that Perry died from “the acute effects of ketamine” in October 2023.

Law enforcement officials provided updates to various media outlets, including ABC News, NBC News, and the Los Angeles Times. Reports indicate that at least one person has been taken into custody, while ABC News suggests there may be multiple arrests. A press conference regarding the investigation is set to take place at 10 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. ET.

Back in May, the Los Angeles Police Department indicated that they were conducting a joint investigation into the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death, collaborating with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. This follow-up was initiated based on findings provided by the Medical Examiner’s office.

The autopsy report, released in December, decisively ruled Perry’s death as accidental, attributed to the acute effects of ketamine. Additional contributors noted were drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine, a medication often utilized for treating opioid addiction as well as for managing both acute and chronic pain.

The report indicated no signs of fatal trauma, nor did it suggest any foul play. Notably, it was established that there were no illicit drugs or medications found near the pool area where Perry was discovered, reinforcing that he had been reportedly sober for 19 months prior to his passing. Tests showed no alcohol or illegal substances like methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl in his system at the time of his death.

According to the autopsy findings, the level of ketamine detected in Perry’s body was significantly high, reaching 3,540 nanograms per milliliter. In comparison, typical levels during general anesthesia range between 1,000 to 6,000 ng/ml. Ketamine is classified as a “dissociative anesthetic,” known to induce hallucinations and alter sensory perceptions.

Matthew Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy to cope with depression and anxiety. He reportedly had his last therapy session one and a half weeks prior to his death. However, the autopsy noted that the amount of ketamine present at the time of death could not be attributed to the infusion therapy, since the drug’s half-life is typically between three to four hours. As such, the exact method of intake remains unclear.

The autopsy further clarified that at the elevated levels of ketamine found in his system, the primary risks involved were cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression. Drowning played a significant role in the circumstances of his death, as it was likely that Perry lapsed into unconsciousness and subsequently submerged in the pool. Additionally, the pre-existing coronary artery disease would have exacerbated the effects of ketamine on his heart.

On October 28, 2023, first responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department were called to Perry’s residence in Pacific Palisades at 4:07 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered him unconscious in a standalone jacuzzi. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter, at 4:17 p.m. A spokesperson for the LAFD stated that initial medical assessments indicated Perry had likely passed away prior to their arrival.

The arrest related to Perry’s death underscores the ongoing investigation into the events leading to this tragic incident. His passing has left an indelible mark on fans and the entertainment community alike, with many reflecting on his significant contributions to television and film.

Source: USA Today