In a shocking turn of events, the death of beloved actor Matthew Perry from the acute effects of ketamine, a prescription drug, has prompted a criminal investigation. Authorities are currently looking into how Perry obtained the medication that ultimately led to his untimely demise. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), is leading the probe.

Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the hit TV series "Friends," was found dead on October 28 in the hot tub of his Pacific Palisades home. The Los Angeles County medical examiner discovered trace amounts of ketamine in Perry's stomach. However, the level found in his blood was equivalent to the dosage used during general anesthesia, indicating a significant amount of the drug in his system.

The medical examiner's report revealed that the ketamine caused cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression, leading to Perry's death. Drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used in treating opioid-use disorder, were also determined to be contributing factors.

Perry's excessive ketamine intake, which caused concern, prompted authorities to investigate how he obtained such a substantial quantity of the drug. LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division Captain Scot Williams confirmed the joint investigation with the DEA.

The actor had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy for a period of time, receiving treatment every other day. However, he had reduced his intake, and his last known infusion occurred approximately a week and a half before his passing. Despite this, the ketamine found in his system at the time of death could not have been from this earlier treatment, as it typically disappears within a few hours of consumption.

Perry's struggle with substance abuse was well-documented, with the actor admitting in his 2022 memoir that he began substance abuse at the age of 14. He discussed how his addiction escalated during his time playing Chandler Bing on "Friends," with fame amplifying his dependency on alcohol and drugs. At one point, Perry revealed that he was consuming nearly five dozen pills daily.

As the investigation continues, experts emphasize that determining the exact cause of Perry's death will take time and involve a team of physicians and investigators from the L.A. County coroner's office. It has been noted that Perry had no illicit drugs or paraphernalia found at his home, and his autopsy report revealed no substances besides ketamine in his system.

Ketamine, commonly used as an anesthetic, has increasingly been used "off-label" at private clinics to treat depression and other mental health disorders. Recreational use of the drug can lead to euphoric or dissociative effects. Experts warn that high doses of ketamine can adversely affect breathing and put strain on the heart, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as coronary artery disease.

Perry's passing has left fans and colleagues in shock, with fellow "Friends" stars and many others sharing heartfelt tributes to the talented actor. A true master of sarcasm, Perry's unique blend of resilience and vulnerability endeared him to audiences worldwide.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities hope to shed light on the tragic circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry's death and the source of the ketamine that contributed to his demise.