Mon. Sep 16th, 2024
alert-–-richard-simmons-autopsy-reveals-the-star-had-drugs-in-his-system-when-he-died-after-a-fallAlert – Richard Simmons autopsy reveals the star had drugs in his system when he died after a fall

Fitness guru Richard Simmons had traces of prescription drugs used to treat insomnia in his system when he died, an autopsy report revealed. 

The report released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office on Thursday showed Simmons, 76,  had diphenhydramine, trazodone and zolpidem in his system. 

There were no evidence of any recreational drugs in his system, according to the toxicology report. 

The same pills were found in his bathroom, according to the autopsy report obtained by DailyMail.com.

The Medical Examiner ruled his cause of death as ‘sequelae of blunt force traumatic injuries’ due to a ‘ground level fall’. The manner of death was ruled as an accident. 

The report also indicated Simmons had arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. 

He  was found in his home by his longtime housekeeper on August 13 – just one day after celebrating his 76th birthday.

Simmons’ brother, Lenny, announced last week the death was ruled ‘accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor.’

‘The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed,’ family spokesperson Tom Estey told People. ‘The Family wishes to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss.

According to the report, Simmons did suffer a fall the evening of August 12 but decided not to seek medical attention right away. 

Instead, his caretaker helped Simmons back into bed. 

His secretary, who visited the fitness guru, told officials Simmons’ ‘speech seemed slurred’. His caretaker told officials Simmons did take medication before he went to sleep. 

The next day at about 9:30 am, his caretaker found Simmons unresponsive on his bedroom floor. 

Simmons revealed in March he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.

He took to Facebook to celebrate his birthday the day before, writing to fans: ‘Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard.’

Simmons also revealed his fun plans to celebrate his birthday in a very rare interview, telling People that his birthday candle would be stuck in a zucchini as he’s a ‘vegetarian.’

Reflecting on turning 76, he added: ‘I feel good! I am grateful that I’m here, that I am alive for another day. I’ll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people.’

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