Police Report Reveals Medication and Phone Clues in AEW Star Pac's Death

Key points

• Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac, was found dead in a rental car outside a CAVA restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois, on September 27, 2026.
• A Des Plaines police report noted saliva on his shirt and medication in his vehicle, though the specific drug was redacted.
• Satterley's phone was active, with Google Maps routing him to O'Hare Airport, and he had spoken to a woman around 1:30 p.m. about going to lunch.
• He had competed in an AEW match against Andrade the previous night at the NOW Arena in Chicago.
• The Cook County Medical Examiner's office stated that a cause of death is pending additional testing after an initial autopsy.
• AEW held a tribute event on September 30, featuring matches honoring Satterley's legacy and rivalries.

Background

Satterley, 40, was a prominent figure in professional wrestling, having joined AEW in 2019. He was a member of the Death Riders and had won multiple titles, including the AEW International Championship. His death occurred shortly after his final match, sparking widespread mourning across the industry. Previous reports confirmed his death was ruled non-suspicious, but the exact cause remained under investigation.

How outlets are covering it

California Post highlighted specific forensic details from the police report, such as the presence of medication and saliva, as well as phone activity indicating travel plans. AEW focused on honoring Satterley's career through a tribute broadcast, emphasizing his impact on the sport and his relationships with peers like Will Ospreay and Ricochet. Salon.com contextualized his death within the broader labor issues in professional wrestling, noting the lack of health benefits for independent contractors and the physical toll of the profession. Fightful discussed the industry's response, including AEW's tribute and WWE's scheduled matches, without detailing the forensic findings.

Why it matters

The release of police report details adds a new dimension to the investigation into Pac's death, potentially influencing the final autopsy results. It underscores the ongoing scrutiny of health and safety standards in professional wrestling, where athletes often work as independent contractors without robust health protections. The incident also highlights the intense physical demands of the sport, which can contribute to premature health issues among performers.

What to watch

The Cook County Medical Examiner's office will continue testing to determine the exact cause of death. AEW and other wrestling organizations may face increased pressure to improve health and safety protocols for their talent. The family of Pac has expressed gratitude for support, and the industry will likely continue to honor his legacy through tributes and discussions about wrestler welfare.