Matthew Perry death case: Authorities investigate who supplied ‘Friends’ star with ketamine

The actor, known for his role on the popular sitcom, 'Friends,' passed away on October 28, 2023.

Authorities are nearing a decision in the investigation into the tragic death of Matthew Perry, which occurred last October.

A joint effort involving the Los Angeles Police Department, the U.S. Postal Service, and the Drug Enforcement Agency is nearing completion, with recommendations expected to reach federal prosecutors soon, according to Deadline.

The investigation focuses on individuals suspected of supplying the 54-year-old Friends star with ketamine and possibly other substances in the days leading up to his death. 

Sources close to law enforcement reveal that Perry obtained drugs from acquaintances he met online, although specifics on how these connections were established have not been disclosed.

Recent involvement of the USPS in the probe suggests the potential involvement of mailed substances in the case.

As of now, no significant updates have been provided by officials. A LAPD spokesperson stated, "There is no additional information at this time," confirming the ongoing status of the investigation initiated in collaboration with the DEA last month.

The U.S. Attorney's office declined to comment on the matter or potential charges. Should federal prosecutors decide against pursuing charges, state prosecutors may consider the case, although no decisions have been made yet.

Matthew Perry's death, occurring six weeks after he was found in his backyard hot tub, was determined by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office to be due to the acute effects of ketamine, with drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine also contributing, according to the autopsy report released on December 15, 2023.

Perry, known for his role in the iconic TV series Friends, had publicly battled substance abuse over the years and had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy prior to his death. 

Despite his recent therapy schedule, which he had paused a week before his death, traces of the drug remained in his system.

The investigation into Perry's death began in late May following concerns regarding the amount of ketamine found in his system, as stated by law enforcement sources at the time.

People first reported on the latest developments in the investigation into Matthew Perry's death.