AEW Star Pac Found Unresponsive in Car Outside Chicago Restaurant Before Death

Professional wrestler Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac, died at age 40 after being found unresponsive in a vehicle outside a restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois, one day after competing at AEW's All Out event. Authorities ruled the death non-suspicious, but a cause is pending autopsy results.
Key points
- Satterley was discovered slumped in a rental car in a CAVA parking lot at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2026.
- He was pronounced dead at 4:08 p.m. by Cook County Medical Examiner’s office personnel.
- The death occurred less than one mile from O’Hare International Airport, following his match against Andrade at the All Out pay-per-view in Hoffman Estates the previous night.
- Police and medical examiners stated there are no indications of foul play or trauma, and the circumstances are not considered suspicious.
- Satterley, a native of Newcastle upon Tyne, England, had a 22-year career spanning WWE, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and AEW, where he held multiple championships.
Background
Satterley’s death follows the recent passing of fellow AEW wrestler Andy Williams, known as The Butcher, who collapsed at an independent match in Pennsylvania a few weeks prior. Satterley had previously wrestled in WWE under the ring names 'Adrian Neville' and 'Neville' before joining AEW in 2019. He was recognized for his high-flying style, earning nicknames such as 'King of the Cruiserweights' and 'The Man That Gravity Forgot.'
How outlets are covering it
The California Post and Daily Herald reported that Satterley was found alone in a rental car, with witnesses attempting to assist before emergency services arrived. CNN emphasized his legacy, noting his 147 matches in AEW and his status as the inaugural AEW All-Atlantic Champion. AEW’s official statement focused on his contributions to the promotion, while tributes from figures like Triple H and Ric Flair highlighted his character and athletic ability. All sources agree on the timeline and non-suspicious nature of the death, but differ in emphasis: local outlets focused on the scene of discovery, while national outlets highlighted his career achievements and industry reactions.
Why it matters
The sudden death of a prominent wrestler raises concerns about athlete health and safety in professional wrestling, particularly given the recent death of another AEW talent. It also underscores the physical toll of the sport on performers, even those known for their agility and resilience.
What to watch
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s office is conducting additional testing to determine the cause and manner of death, which could take weeks. AEW and other promotions are expected to continue honoring Satterley’s legacy through tributes and possibly memorial events.
- Exclusive | AEW star Pac discovered slumped over in vehicle outside CAVA restaurant before death New York Post
- Famed pro wrestler known as Pac dies in Des Plaines Daily Herald
- AEW wrestling star Benjamin Satterley, known as Pac, dies at 40 CNN
- All Elite Wrestling Announces Passing of Benjamin Satterley, aka Pac AEW
- Wrestler Benjamin Satterley, known as 'Pac,' dies after competition in Chicago ABC7 Chicago
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