Matthew Perry death not caused by fentanyl or meth overdose, according to initial tests

Matthew Perry's death was not the result of a fentanyl or meth overdose. Picture: REUTERS/Lee Celano

Matthew Perry's death was not the result of a fentanyl or meth overdose. Picture: REUTERS/Lee Celano

Published Nov 1, 2023

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Matthew Perry's death was not the result of a fentanyl or meth overdose.

The 'Friends' actor tragically died in his hot tub on Saturday aged 54, and initial tests have ruled out either substance being in his system at the time of his death.

As reported by TMZ, law enforcement sources have revealed investigators have run "a less in-depth test" on the actor.

However, further tests are under way as part of toxicology to see whether any other illegal drugs are present in his blood, as well as whether the levels of any prescription medication were at a harmful dose.

The results for those tests are expected to take four to six months to be back, with that data being used by the coroner to determine the cause of death.

Perry died in a suspected drowning, and police said there were no signs of foul play at the scene of his death, but the LAPD’s Robbery Homicide Division has taken over the investigation into his shock passing.

TMZ reported on Tuesday: “It may come as a surprise to some because foul play is not suspected at this point, but cops say it's just standard procedure for (its Robbery Homicide Division to investigate) high-profile cases.”

The outlet added that the LAPD said: “The Robbery Homicide Division is looking to make sure there is nothing nefarious involved in Matthew's death, and it's normal for RHD to take the lead on high-profile cases because RHD has the experience and manpower necessary.”

Perry reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest and was unresponsive when found by his assistant in his jacuzzi at 4pm on Saturday.

Perry had spent years battling drink and drug addictions, and authorities said no illegal substances were found at his home.

But his home was reportedly packed with a huge range of prescription medications – from anti-depressants and anxiety pills to heart drugs.