Matthew Perry death investigation ketamine blood

Investigation underway into how actor Matthew Perry obtained fatal supply of drugs, no foul play suspected in his death.

Authorities are currently investigating how actor Matthew Perry obtained the supply of ketamine that ultimately led to his death. Los Angeles police, in collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, are looking into why the 54-year-old "Friends" star had such a significant amount of the drug in his system, according to LAPD Capt. Scot Williams.

Perry was discovered face down in his hot tub by an assistant on October 28, and despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The autopsy report released in December revealed that the level of ketamine in his blood was consistent with that used for general anesthesia during surgery, and was determined to be the primary cause of death. The incident was ruled as an accident with no foul play suspected, although drowning and other medical issues were considered contributing factors.

It was reported by TMZ that individuals close to Perry informed the coroner's office that he was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy. However, the medical examiner noted that the levels of ketamine in his blood could not be explained by his last treatment 1 1/2 weeks prior, as the drug is typically metabolized within hours. Perry was under the care of two doctors, a psychiatrist and an anesthesiologist, who were treating him for various conditions, but no illicit drugs or paraphernalia were found in his residence.

Perry had a long history of struggles with addiction, which dated back to his time on "Friends." The popular sitcom ran for 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004, where Perry portrayed the character Chandler Bing alongside other cast members such as Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and Lisa Kudrow. Drug-related celebrity deaths have prompted legal action against those who supplied the substances, as seen in cases involving rapper Mac Miller, model Anna Nicole Smith, and pop icon Michael Jackson.

The investigation into Perry's death continues as authorities seek to uncover the circumstances surrounding his access to ketamine and the events leading up to his tragic passing. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor, and fans remember Perry for his contributions to television and film throughout his career.