The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has released the official cause of death for fitness legend Richard Simmons, stating that his passing was ruled an "accident" resulting from sequelae of blunt traumatic injuries. The report also noted that Simmons had atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a form of heart disease, which served as a contributing factor.

This news comes after Simmons' brother, Lenny, revealed to People magazine last week that Richard's death was accidental, citing complications arising from recent falls and underlying heart disease. The American Heart Association defines atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as the buildup of plaque in artery walls, which can lead to various conditions like acute coronary syndrome, peripheral artery disease, and even heart attacks or strokes.

According to the medical examiner's report, on the evening of July 11, 2024, Simmons experienced dizziness and collapsed onto the floor. He was discovered the following morning and spent the day in bed. Sadly, on the morning of July 13, he was found unresponsive on the bedroom floor, and his death was pronounced at the scene.

The autopsy revealed a fracture of Simmons' left femur and the presence of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Additional findings included incidental bilateral renal cortical cysts and a gallstone. However, the toxicology report showed that the medications found in Simmons' system, such as diphenhydramine, trazodone, and zolpidem, did not contribute to the cause of death.

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, while trazodone is commonly used to treat depression. Zolpidem, primarily prescribed as a short-term treatment for insomnia, was also detected. Lenny, in a recent statement, clarified that the toxicology report showed no concerning substances apart from the medications that Richard had been prescribed.

Richard Simmons, who captured the hearts of many with his energetic fitness routines and motivational spirit, passed away at the age of 76 in his Los Angeles home. His enthusiastic approach to health and well-being inspired countless individuals throughout his esteemed career.

The official cause of his death sheds some light on the circumstances surrounding his passing, attributing it to accidental blunt traumatic injuries and underlying heart disease. Simmons' legacy as a fitness icon will continue to inspire people worldwide to embrace a healthy lifestyle and prioritize their well-being.