Months after the tragic passing of beloved “Friends” star Matthew Perry, authorities have arrested at least one individual in connection with his death. This significant development comes after an extensive investigation that has now led to federal charges, according to a report from Variety, citing the Los Angeles Times.
Matthew Perry, who was 54 at the time of his death, was discovered unresponsive in the hot tub of his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. An autopsy revealed traces of ketamine in his system, initially leading officials to classify his death as an accidental overdose. However, in May, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced that they were collaborating with federal authorities to trace the source of the ketamine Perry had ingested.
The investigation has since intensified, with search warrants executed and evidence seized from multiple individuals under scrutiny. The Los Angeles Times reports that federal charges have been brought against several people, one of whom holds a medical license. This arrest marks a crucial step in uncovering the circumstances that led to Perry’s untimely death.
Initially, first responders were dispatched to Perry’s residence following reports of cardiac arrest. However, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that Perry died from “acute effects of ketamine,” with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder.
The news of Perry’s passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his global fanbase. His “Friends” co-stars, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, Jennifer Aniston, and Lisa Kudrow, issued a heartfelt statement expressing their profound grief.
“We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just castmates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss,” the statement read, adding, “In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to be released at a forthcoming press conference in Los Angeles. Perry’s death remains a poignant reminder of the struggles he faced, and the profound impact he had on his fans and colleagues alike.
