Heath Ledger died from accidental overdose, coroner rules

Heath Ledger died from an accidental overdose according to the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office.

An autopsy was carried out the day after Heath died on 22nd January but was deemed inconclusive pending the results of the related toxicology tests, which were announced today.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner this morning explains: “Heath Ledger died as the result of acute intoxication by the combined effects of [pain killer] oxycodone, [cough suppresant] hydrocodone, [sedative] diazepam, temazepam [which is used for anxiety or to treat sleep problems], [anti-depressant] alprazolam, and [sedative] doxylamine.”

“We have concluded that the manner of death is accident, resulting from the abuse of prescription medications.”

After the cause of death was confirmed, Heath’s dad Kim Ledger issued a statement on behalf of the family, reading: We remain humble as parents and a family, among millions of people worldwide who may have suffered the tragic loss of a child. Few can understand the hollow, wrenching, and enduring agony parents silently suffer when a child predeceases them. Today’s results put an end to speculation, but our son’s beautiful spirit and enduring memory will forever remain in our hearts.”

“While no medications were taken in excess, we learned today the combination of doctor-prescribed drugs proved lethal for our boy. Heath’s accidental death serves as a caution to the hidden dangers of combining prescription medication, even at low dosage.”

“Our family enjoyed an extremely happy two week visit with Heath just prior to the New Year. Those recent precious days will stay with us forever. We as a family feel privileged to have some of his amazing magic moments captured in film.”

“To most of the world Heath was an actor of immeasurable talent and promise. To those who knew him personally, Heath was a consummate artist whose passions also included photography, music, chess and directing. We knew Heath as a loving father, as our devoted son, and as a loyal and generous brother and friend.”

“We treasure our beautiful granddaughter Matilda (to our dear Michelle) as well as an unbelievably wonderful network of close friends, forever, around the world. Families rarely experience the uplifting, warm and massive outpouring of grief and support as have we, from every corner of the planet. This has deeply and profoundly touched our hearts and lives. We are eternally grateful.”

Heath’s funeral is expected to take place in his native Perth, Australia this weekend and former partner Michelle Williams and their daughter Matilda arrived in the city yesterday.