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Matthew Perry’s Death Being Investigated By Federal Authorities
Matthew Perry poses at a photocall for "The End Of Longing", a new play which he wrote and stars in at The Playhouse Theatre, on February 8, 2016 in London, England.
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David M. Benett
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Getty Images Europe
)
Topline:
Local and federal authorities are investigating how "Friends" star Matthew Perry obtained the ketamine that contributed to his death, the Los Angeles Police Department announced Tuesday.
Why it matters: The LAPD, the DEA, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which is the law enforcement arm of the USPS, are involved with the investigation. The inspection service works to prevent the flow of illicit drugs in the mail stream.
Death Investigation Update: On 10-28-23 LAPD responded to the residence of actor Matthew Perry to conduct a death investigation. On 10-29-23, an autopsy of Mr. Perry was performed by the L.A. County Department of Medical Examiner.
— LAPD PIO (@LAPDPIO) May 21, 2024
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The backstory: The L.A. County medical examiner determined that Perry died last October from the “acute effects of ketamine.” The autopsy report states that he was on ketamine infusion therapy less than two weeks before his death, but the “high levels” in his system could not have been from those treatments.
Additional details: Other factors in Perry’s death included drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, which is used to treat opioid use disorder. The medical examiner also ruled the actor’s death accidental.
Go deeper: Read more about Perry's death.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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