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Former Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke allegedly had syringes, prescription meds, a box of Narcan and an “unknown” white powder in his home when he died earlier this year.
Investigators made the stunning findings inside Clarke’s San Fernando Valley home on May 11 when they discovered his body, according to the LA County Medical Examiner’s death report obtained by the California Post on Monday.
Investigators uncovered “vape devices, cannabis products, prescription medications, injectable peptides, syringes, a box of Narcan, blister packets of medications, vitamins and other medical evidence” in and around his room and its attached bathroom, according to the report.
Additionally, officials alleged they discovered “a plate containing [an] unknown white powdery substance and a hotel key card” on the kitchen island counter.
“The cause of death is attributed to effects of heroin and cocaine,” the death investigation summary stated. “Combined effects of multiple prescription medications are listed as contributory. The manner of death is classified as accident.”
Clarke’s roommate told investigators the basketball player had a history of drug use and had prior stints at a rehabilitation program, according to the report.
Clarke got his start in the NBA in 2019, when the Grizzlies selected him in the first round.
He went on to play seven seasons for the Memphis franchise, starting 50 total games. He was in the middle of a $52 million contract with the team when he died.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said in a statement the day after his death. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.
“We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Clarke was arrested in Arkansas just weeks before his death, after authorities claimed they found 235.6 grams of kratom inside of his vehicle during a routine traffic stop.
Clarke told officers at the scene that he believed the drugs were “legal,” according to the Cross County Sheriff’s Office.
The case was still pending when he died.
Clarke’s fiancée, Amber Lorraine, called him “the most special person, with the biggest heart” in an emotional social media post in the days after his death.
“There are no words to describe this feeling,” she said. “The day you proposed was the happiest day of my life. We were supposed to be married soon and eventually start a family.”
Clarke was 29 years old.
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