In a report released Friday, a medical examiner in Texas has ruled that Tyler Skaggs died from an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office issued a technical report that said Skaggs died as a result of “mixed ethanol, fentanyl, oxycodone intoxication with terminal aspiration of gastric contents.”
The 27-year-old starting pitcher was found dead in his hotel room before the start of a four-game series between the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels on July 1st. The game was postponed, but the teams did play the final three games of the series. The Rangers honored Skaggs the next day by not playing any music or announcing the usual in-game promotions. They also paid tribute to Skaggs by painting his number “45” on the mound.
Autopsy Reveals That Tyler Skaggs Died of Accidental Overdose
Ongoing Investigation
According to the Southlake Texas Police Department there may have been an employee within the Angels organization involved in Skaggs’ death. The Department has stated that an investigation is still ongoing.
Family Statement
“We are heartbroken to learn that the passing of our beloved Tyler was the result of a combination of dangerous drugs and alcohol,” the statement said. “That is completely out of character for someone who worked so hard to become a Major League baseball player and had a very promising future in the game he loved so much.”
“We are grateful for the work of the detectives in the Southlake Police Department and their ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Tyler’s death. We were shocked to learn that it may involve an employee of the Los Angeles Angels. We will not rest until we learn the truth about how Tyler came into possession of these narcotics, including who supplied them. To that end, we have hired attorney Rusty Hardin to assist us.”
RIP Tyler
No matter the cause of Skaggs’ death, baseball fans should remember him for the joy he brought to others and for the memories he provided on the mound. Everyone should continue giving his family privacy during this difficult time.
Main Photo:
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