The coroner’s office of Clark County, Nev., said on Tuesday LPGA golfer Erica Blasberg died died of asphyxia coupled with the presence of toxic levels of prescription medication — including prescription headache, cough, pain and anti-anxiety medications and has been ruled a suicide.
“While asphyxia was the primary cause of death, the presence of prescription drugs in Ms. Blasberg’s system was a significant factor,” Coroner Michael Murphy said.
Also on Tuesday, the Henderson Police Department announced it had ruled out foul play in Blasberg’s death, but an arrest warrant was issued Tuesday for Dr. Thomas Hess on misdemeanor obstruction of justice charges. Police said Hess admitted to altering the scene — hiding an apparent suicide note and prescription medications in his vehicle — and stopped cooperating with detectives.
Blasberg, 25, was in her sixth season on the LPGA Tour. She went to high school in Corona and was a two-time All-American at the University of Arizona, where she was named NCAA freshman of the year and Pac-10 player of the year in 2003.