NEED TO KNOW
A cause of death has been revealed for former Los Angeles Laker Elden Campbell, who died at age 57 after suffering a medical emergency during a fishing outing on Dec. 1
Campbell’s sister said on Dec. 3 that he “wasn’t sick” and his family “don’t know what happened” to cause his death
According to the medical examiner’s report obtained by PEOPLE, Campbell died of an accidental drowning
A cause of death has been revealed for NBA champion Elden Campbell, who tragically died after suffering a medical emergency while fishing.
Campbell, who was 57, died on Monday, Dec. 1 “due to drowning,” Thomas Steinkamp, the chief of investigative services for Broward County confirmed to PEOPLE. His death was accidental, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, who investigated the case.
TMZ was first to report Campbell’s cause of death.
The former Laker, who played alongside Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, is survived by his wife, Rosemary, four children: Jay Lee, Jael, Ariel and Aaron, according to the NBA, as well as his siblings: sister Sandra and brothers Elwayne and Charles Jr.
Bill Baptist/NBAE via Getty
Elden Campbell on Dec. 6, 1996 in Houston, Texas
On Dec. 3, Sandra told the New York Post that her brother was out on the water and had returned to shore when he collapsed on Monday.
“It was all the sudden,” Sandra said. “He wasn’t sick. He was out fishing.”
She said at the time of the interview that they “don’t know what happened.”
“He was such a big pillar and a staple to our family,” Sandra told the Post. “He’s going to be terribly missed.”
Campbell’s family also released a statement, and seemingly took solace in the fact that he died “doing what he loved.” They remembered the former Laker as “a man to whom family meant everything — generous, funny, disciplined and kind, but could shut you down if required.”
“A man of God, he passed doing what he loved: fishing out on the ocean, enjoying his idea of an ideal day,” his family said.
His death was first announced on Wednesday, Dec. 3 in statements from his alma mater Clemson University and the Detroit Pistons, where he played for two seasons.
“The Detroit Pistons organization is deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news of Elden Campbell’s passing,” the NBA franchise said.
“A proud member of our 2004 NBA Championship team, Elden patrolled the paint with strength and skill, playing an important role during one of the most memorable chapters in franchise history. Beyond his contributions on the court, Elden’s calm presence and warm personality made him beloved by teammates, fans and the community alike. Our hearts and prayers are with Elden’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
“I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent!” Magic Johnson, who played parts of three seasons (1990, 1991 and 1996) with Campbell, wrote on X. “Cookie and I are praying for his family and Lakers Nation as they mourn during this difficult time. Rest in peace Big E!”
Read the original article on People