Richard Simmons Died from Complications of Accidental Falls, Heart Disease: Brother
Beloved fitness icon Richard Simmons passed away at his Los Angeles home on July 13, just a day after celebrating his 76th birthday and while the cause of death is currently under investigation, it is believed that a combination of recent falls and heart disease played a role.
Richard Simmons' brother, Lenny Simmons, confirmed his sibling's passing and stated that the death was due to complications from multiple health issues, as Fox News reports.
The Los Angeles Coroner's office informed Lenny Simmons that Richard's death was accidental, resulting from a combination of recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor. This information was relayed to the family by their spokesperson, Tom Estey.
Complications From Falls and Heart Disease
On the day of his death, Simmons was found in his bedroom by his longtime caretaker, Teresa Reveles.
According to Reveles, she discovered Simmons with his hands balled into fists, leading her to believe he had suffered a heart attack. "When I saw him, he looked peaceful," Reveles told People magazine. "That’s why I know it was a heart attack."
The day before, Simmons had celebrated his birthday, but his health had been declining. Reveles recalled that Simmons had injured his leg in a fall the previous day.
Despite her suggestion to visit the hospital, Simmons opted to wait until the following morning. Tragically, by the next morning, it was too late.
Los Angeles Authorities Continue Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call regarding Simmons' death and confirmed that no foul play was involved.
"Officers responded to a death investigation," officials stated. "There is no foul play." The cause of death has not been officially finalized by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office, with additional testing and investigation still ongoing.
The toxicology report conducted after Simmons' death was negative apart from prescribed medications. The Department of Medical Examiner's Office is still reviewing the case, and the official cause of death has been deferred pending further investigation.
"The Coroner informed Lenny that Richard's death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor. The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed," according to the outlet.
Simmons' Family Expresses Gratitude
In the aftermath of Simmons' death, his family has received an outpouring of love and support from fans and well-wishers around the world. "The family wishes to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss," said Estey on behalf of the Simmons family.
Richard Simmons was known for his energetic personality and dedication to promoting fitness and healthy living. His passing marks the end of an era for many who looked up to him as a source of inspiration and positivity.
Ongoing Uncertainty Surrounds Cause of Death
Despite the preliminary findings, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has yet to release a final report on the cause of Simmons' death. The case remains open, with further investigation needed to determine the full extent of the health issues that led to his passing.
In addition to complications from falls and heart disease, other significant conditions were listed as contributing factors in Simmons' death. However, the exact nature of these conditions has not been disclosed, leaving some uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of his passing.
The Bottom Line
Richard Simmons passed away at his Los Angeles home on July 13, a day after celebrating his 76th birthday.
His death, which was caused by a combination of recent falls and heart disease, is still under investigation by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office.
While no foul play is suspected, the final cause of death has yet to be determined. Simmons' family has expressed gratitude for the support they have received, as fans around the world mourn the loss of the fitness icon.