A shadow now falls over the legacy of Jim Irsay, the former owner of the Indianapolis Colts. His death, initially attributed to cardiac arrest, is now the subject of a federal investigation led by the FBI.
Irsay passed away in May at the age of 65 while staying at the prestigious Beverly Hills Hotel in California. The death certificate, signed by his physician, cited pneumonia and heart issues as the cause, but crucially, no autopsy was ever conducted.
At the center of the FBI’s scrutiny is Dr. Harry Haroutunian, an addiction recovery specialist who was treating Irsay in the months leading up to his death. The investigation is reportedly focused on the doctor’s methods and the medications he prescribed.
Documents reveal a grand jury subpoena seeking detailed information regarding Irsay’s use of both legal and illicit substances, as well as the nature of his relationship with Dr. Haroutunian. The inquiry suggests a deeper look into the circumstances surrounding his final days.
The treatment Irsay received included ketamine, a powerful anesthetic increasingly used – and debated – in addiction recovery. Reports indicate that Irsay was administered opioids and ketamine in quantities that raised concerns among those close to him.
Dr. Haroutunian, when previously questioned, described his relationship with Irsay as deeply personal, stating he dedicated eighteen months to caring for the Colts owner “as a brother.” He maintained they did everything possible to ensure Irsay’s comfort.
The investigation echoes recent scrutiny surrounding the use of ketamine in addiction treatment, particularly in the wake of actor Matthew Perry’s death. That case involved allegations of improper ketamine administration and resulted in criminal charges and a prison sentence for a physician.
Federal authorities, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, are collaborating on the Irsay investigation, signaling the seriousness of the concerns and the potential for broader implications. The Colts organization has acknowledged awareness of the probe but states they have not yet been contacted by investigators.
The absence of an autopsy, combined with the questions surrounding the medications Irsay received, has fueled speculation and prompted this intensive federal inquiry. The search for answers continues, seeking to uncover the full truth behind the death of a prominent figure in professional football.
