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Taylor Hawkins death: Toxicology report reveals 10 different substances in drummer’s system at time of death

Foo Fighters drummer died on Friday aged 50

Leonie Cooper
Saturday 26 March 2022 20:02 EDT
Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins dies aged 50

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Taylor Hawkins had 10 different substances in his system at the time of his death, officials have claimed.

The Foo Fighters drummer died on Friday 25 March in Bogota, Colombia.

He was found dead in his hotel room a few hours before the band were due to headline the Festival Estéreo Picnic event.

On Saturday (26 March), Colombia’s attorney general said in that a preliminary urine toxicological test carried out on Hawkins’ body found 10 different substances present, including marijuana, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, and benzodiazepines.

The statement continued: “The National Institute of Forensic Medicine continues to conduct the necessary medical studies to ascertain the cause of death.

“The Attorney General’s Office will continue to investigate and will duly inform the findings of forensic examinations in due time.”

An investigation to discover the exact cause of Hawkins’ death is now underway.

A further statement from Bogota’s municipal government explained that a report of a hotel guest with “chest pain” caused an ambulance to be sent to the Four Seasons Casa Medina hotel. On arrival health workers attempted to revive Hawkins, but were unable.

Figures from across the music industry shared their sadness at the news of Hawkins’ death, including Liam Gallagher and Ringo Starr.

Fans lay flowers outside Casa Medina Hotel, where Hawkins was found dead
Fans lay flowers outside Casa Medina Hotel, where Hawkins was found dead (Getty Images)

Courtney Love is one of the latest stars to pay tribute, writing on Twitter: “What a sad day, what a tragic passing, Taylor was a sweet adorable kid, excellent drummer, never hurt a fly... My condolences to my darling Pat [Smear], and to David [Grohl] tonight. Rip Taylor. I’m so sorry Dave.”

Hawkins was born in Fort Worth, Texas in 1972 and had been a member of the band since 1997.

The Foo Fighters were among the acts scheduled to perform at the 2022 Grammy Awards on 3 April and had been set to begin a new tour of North America in May.

Hawkins is survived by his wife Alison and their three children.

If you or someone you know is suffering from drug addiction, you can seek confidential help and support 24-7 from Frank, by calling 0300 123 6600, texting 82111, sending an email or visiting their website here.

In the US, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP.

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