The FBI has opened an investigation into the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, the club’s executives confirmed on Friday. The decision to open the investigation underscores the seriousness with which the circumstances surrounding the death and any related factors are being considered.
When Irsay died in May, the team released a statement saying he died “peacefully in his sleep”.
“peacefully in his sleep”
– Colts
However, in late August, The Washington Post reported that Irsay continued to struggle with a long-running addiction to painkillers and that he had overdosed three times in the five years before his death.
Official Statements and Reactions
“We are aware of the investigation, but at this time the FBI has not contacted us and no subpoenas have been served.”
A Colts spokesperson said that they would not comment on the investigation at this time.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the league would not comment on the report.
The Washington Post reported on Thursday that a federal grand jury subpoena, which they reviewed, indicates the FBI is seeking records and information related to Irsay’s death, his use of substances (illegal and prescription) and his “relationship with Dr. Garutunian” – a California-based addiction specialist. The subpoena, it is said, was issued by the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California earlier this month.
“cardiac arrest due to pneumonia and heart problems”
– The Washington Post
The Associated Press left a request for comment to Garutunian on Friday; The Post reported that Garutunian had prescribed painkillers and ketamine to Irsay several months before his death in May 2025.
In August, The Post also reported that Irsay received ketamine, which is typically used as a general anesthetic, in his final months, and that police were called to a hotel room in Beverly Hills, California, where Irsay died. Earlier The Post had written that Garutunian was staying at the hotel and overseeing Irsay’s treatment, and that he signed the death certificate.
The Post noted that the official cause of Irsay’s death was listed as “cardiac arrest due to pneumonia and heart problems,” but no autopsy was performed, and Beverly Hills police closed the investigation a few days later.
When The Post’s initial report appeared in August, Irsay’s three daughters – Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson – who currently run the Colts, issued a statement emphasizing that their father “never claimed to be perfect,” and that he used his voice “to reduce the stigma” surrounding addiction and mental health to support those who fight similar battles.
It should be noted that the investigation focuses on the circumstances of death and possible links to Irsay’s treatment and use of medications, and underscores the family’s role in public discussion of addiction and mental health.