Authorities believe “multiple people” could face charges related to Matthew Perry’s sudden death last October, according to People magazine. A law enforcement source revealed that the federal investigation into Perry’s death is wrapping up, with decisions on charges imminent.
Cause of death and investigation details
Perry, 54, died from the “acute effects of ketamine,” an accidental overdose, as determined by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. His autopsy also cited drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine, an opioid, as contributing factors.
In his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” Perry openly discussed his use of ketamine, a drug used for pain relief and depression treatment. He described the experience as unsettling, saying it felt like a “giant exhale” that made him feel like he was “dying.”
Despite the Los Angeles Police Department closing its investigation in January, TMZ reported in May that federal authorities were probing Perry’s use of ketamine. Dr. Bankole Johnson speculated that Perry might have obtained ketamine illegally for recreational use, noting the dangers of combining it with buprenorphine.
Final moments and legacy
Perry was discovered dead in the hot tub of his Los Angeles mansion after sending his assistant on an errand. He was believed to be sober in the months leading up to his death, although he had battled substance abuse for much of his adult life. Perry revealed in his memoir that he spent around $9 million on recovery efforts.
“Not only do I have the disease, but I also have it bad,” Perry wrote candidly. “It’s going to kill me…”
Perry was committed to helping others achieve sobriety. In 2012, he converted his $10 million Malibu beach estate into a men’s sober living facility called the Perry House. A decade later, he expressed to podcaster Tom Power his desire to be remembered for his efforts in promoting sober living.
“When I die, I don’t want ‘Friends’ to be the first thing that’s mentioned,” Perry said. “I want that to be the first thing that’s mentioned. And I’m gonna live the rest of my life proving that.”
Ongoing legal developments
Page Six reached out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for comment but did not receive an immediate response. As the investigation concludes, the public awaits the decision on potential charges related to Perry’s tragic death.