Paul O’Neill, the founder of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, died on April 5 from what was reported at the time as a chronic illness.
The Hillsborough, FL medical examiner’s office released the findings of their autopsy and toxicology testing, blaming his death on a mix of prescription drugs.
O’Neill did have a number of chronic conditions, including heart disease, hypertension and some hardening of the arteries, but the coroner cited a deadly mixture of methadone, codeine, Valium and antihistamine as the actual cause of death.
O’Neill’s family released the following statement:
Paul’s family has been inspired and thankful for the outpouring of support, well-wishes, and prayers, and we thank you for your ongoing respect for their personal privacy.
At this time they would like to share a few more details about the passing of Paul O’Neill:
The Hillsborough, Florida medical examiner’s office has determined the official cause of Paul O’Neill’s death as accidental, resulting from an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications to treat his numerous chronic illnesses (including bone augmentation surgery, complications from spinal fusion surgery, heart disease, and hypertension).
