Presley Gerber, 27, Dies at Santa Monica Rehab Facility; Investigation Focuses on Overdose

Key points

• Officers were called to the 1000 block of Berkeley Street in Santa Monica around 9:35 a.m. on Sunday for a report of a possible overdose or cardiac arrest.
• The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed an autopsy was completed but deferred the cause and manner of death, stating additional testing is required.
• Santa Monica Police stated there is no indication of foul play, though the investigation into the suspected overdose remains ongoing.
• Gerber, a model and the older brother of Kaia Gerber, had previously spoken publicly about his struggles with addiction and mental health.
• The family, represented by Allie Jenkins, requested privacy during this difficult time.

Background

Presley Gerber was the eldest child of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, who married in 1998. He and his sister Kaia are professional models. Gerber had previously used social media to discuss his mental health challenges and addiction, including a program called 'Mental Health Mondays.' He had also mentioned undergoing ibogaine treatment in Mexico. His death follows a period of public advocacy for mental health awareness, with his sister noting his openness about his struggles in recent interviews.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Chicago and NBC News report that police are investigating the death as a suspected overdose, with no indication of foul play. Fox News highlights expert opinions from Dr. Nicholas Kardaris, who cautions that deaths in rehab facilities can also result from withdrawal complications, such as benzodiazepine withdrawal, or undiagnosed medical conditions, rather than just overdose. Fox News also notes that Gerber had previously undergone ibogaine treatment, which is not FDA-approved in the U.S. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has not disclosed the specific cause of death, stating that additional testing is required. All sources agree that the family has requested privacy.

Why it matters

The death of a high-profile individual in a rehabilitation facility raises questions about the safety and efficacy of addiction treatment programs. It highlights the risks associated with withdrawal, relapse, and the use of unregulated substances like ibogaine. The case also underscores the importance of thorough medical examinations and the ongoing challenges of addiction recovery, even in controlled environments.

What to watch

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner will continue testing to determine the official cause and manner of death. Santa Monica Police will continue their investigation into the suspected overdose. The family has requested privacy, so no further public statements are expected at this time. Experts may continue to discuss the risks of addiction treatment and the importance of vetting treatment facilities.