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Published on May 21, 2024
LAPD & DEA Probe Ketamine Source in Matthew Perry's Tragic EndSource: Office of National Drug Control Policy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The late Matthew Perry, renowned for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on "Friends," has had his death scrutinized by authorities for over half a year, with the LAPD and DEA delving into the origins of the ketamine that led to his fatal overdose last October. In a home that echoes with the silence of absence, the investigation continues into how Perry, who died at age 54, acquired the prescription drug which was identified as a contributing factor in his death, alongside drowning and coronary artery disease, as per the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.

According to an open investigation by the LAPD cited by FOX LA, Perry was found unresponsive in the pool at his Pacific Palisades residence. The autopsy revealed the fatal "acute effects of ketamine," with levels indicating intake from an external source beyond his known ketamine infusion treatments for depression and anxiety. Contributing factors included Perry’s well-documented struggle with addiction, one that he bravely opened up about in his 2022 memoir, painting a picture of his battles with sobriety through the peaks and valleys of his life.

While the autopsy report indicated that ketamine played a crucial role in the actor’s death, determining where the drug came from has been an ongoing challenge for authorities. In statements by the LAPD and as reported by ABC News, detectives have been conducting interviews with potential informants who may shed light on the drug source. However, as of today, the veil has not been lifted on any particular provider, leaving the source as enigmatic as the drug's dissociative effects.

The involvement of the DEA and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service suggests a possible route through which the ketamine may have been obtained, but thus far, no arrests have been made. An LAPD statement obtained by local sources confirmed that the investigation is very active, with the cause of death being the painful conclusion of a series of health and addiction challenges plaguing Perry for years.

In a career that spanned decades and captivated millions, Perry's battle with addiction often paralleled his professional successes. His legacy, as viewed by fans and peers alike, extends beyond his on-screen persona to an individual who endeavored to use his platform to support others wrestling with similar demons. As quoted in a "20/20" interview with Diane Sawyer, Perry had stated, "Obviously, because I was on 'Friends,' more people will listen to me. So I've got to take advantage of that, and I've got to help as many people as I can." His death serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis and the perils of addiction, even among the most beloved figures.