# 166

April 21, 2016, the Singer “Prince” Died in Minnesota from an overdose of the synthetic opioid Fentanyl.

In the preliminary autopsy findings from the death of Mr. George Floyd, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Medical Examiner has reported that no compression/damage to neck or vertebrae, pre-existing heart disease and hypertension was found and that the presence of “intoxicants” may be determined.

This blog was created in May 2016 due immediately after Prince’s overdose death and also because of my brother’s death, from 30 years use of PCP, in February, 1999.

In most sudden and unexpected deaths, autopsies are required by law. Where no trauma or clear determination can be made during autopsy, Medical Examiners have to wait for the Forensic Toxicology Report.

As this blog has reported for four years, CNS (Central Nervous System) Depressants, from the families of natural and synthetic opioids, the substances site of activity lies in the respiratory center located at the back, or rear, of the brain.  If the dose is large enough - and that can only be a few grains for Fentanyl- the user goes to sleep, coma and death.

Under normal circumstances, Detectives usually have to wait for the formal toxicology report.  A preliminary finding may come from hospital analysis of urine when someone is brought to the emergency room.  These results are not official.  The formal Toxicology Report is derived from blood taken, usually at or near the heart, during autopsy.

Depending on the levels of an opioid found in the blood, Medical Examiners can routinely determine whether the victim self-administered a lethal dose.

Sadly, that was the case in Minnesota, four years ago with Prince.