Heath Ledger’s Death Ruled Accidental

By: Shannon Gossage

A spokeswoman for New York’s Chief Medical Examiner released a statement Wednesday morning that said, "Mr. Heath Ledger died as the result of acute intoxication by the combined effects of Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Diazepam, Temazepam, Alprazolam, and Doxylamine." The statement also said, "We have concluded that the manner of death is accident, resulting from the abuse of prescription medications."

Ledger, 28, was found dead in his apartment in Manhattan on January 22. The police ruled out foul play and initially it was reported that the actor had committed suicide. Six medications were found near the body and included sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medication. In the Medical Examiner’s report it stated that his death was an "accident" caused by "abuse" of the prescription drugs. A source has said that the drugs were not used properly and were used to obtain an "intoxicant effect." Police will reportedly begin an investigation into how Ledger could obtain so many different prescriptions.

This particular combination of drugs is deadly and has led to a high number of accidental deaths. Since Ledger’s death it has been reported that he died from use of illegal drugs, now those rumors can be put to rest. The actor leaves behind a 2-year old daughter, Matilda Rose, with ex-girlfriend Michelle Williams. The two recently arrived in Perth, Australia reportedly for a private burial this weekend. Ledger had a promising career as an actor and a director, but tragically his life was cut short accidentally.