Erica Blasberg during a break from the video shoot for Puma Golf
The Associated Press is reporting that the Clark County coroner’s office ruled Tuesday that 25-year-old professional golfer Erica Blasberg’s death was a suicide.
Blasberg died May 9 at her home in Henderson, about 15 miles southeast of the Las Vegas Strip. The coroner’s office said Blasberg died of suicide due to asphyxia, coupled with the presence of toxic levels of prescription medication in her system, including prescription headache, cough, pain and anti-anxiety medications.
“While asphyxia was the primary cause of death, the presence of prescription drugs in Ms. Blasberg’s system was a significant factor,” Coroner Michael Murphy said.
The Henderson Police Department also announced it concluded an extensive investigation Tuesday and determined there was no foul play.
Still, a misdemeanor obstruction of justice arrest warrant was issued for Dr. Thomas Hess for allegedly removing items from the death scene before police arrived at the home.
Police have said a 911 call from Hess summoning police came from the house, and that Blasberg was alone when officers arrived. Blasberg’s agent said her bags were packed for a tournament in Mobile, Ala., when she was found.
The death investigation was complicated, police said, because Hess admitted to altering the scene — including the removal of a note indicating Blasberg took her own life — and he stopped cooperating with detectives. Hess hid the note and prescription medications in his vehicle.
Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press
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What a shame.