Singer Aaron Carter accidentally drowned in his bathtub after taking drugs, his autopsy has revealed.
The child star was found dead at his home in Lancaster, California, last November at the age of 34.
At the time Carter’s representatives said his cause of death was being investigated.
Now, an autopsy report, obtained by US media outlets, has noted the effects of sedatives and inhaling gas as contributing to his death. It said that he had died after becoming “incapacitated” and “submerged underwater”.
“Based on the autopsy findings, investigative reports and circumstances, as currently known, Mr Carter became incapacitated while in the bathtub due to the effects of inhaling compressed gas and taking alprazolam,” the report stated.
“This resulted in him becoming submerged under water, unable to breath, and ultimately led to his death.”
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Alprazolam, often sold under the brand name Xanax, was found in Carter’s system as was the presence of difluoroethane.
Difluoroethane was described by the report as a gas commonly used as a propellant in air spray cleaners for electronic devices that can “induce feelings of euphoria when inhaled”.
It is known to lead to cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest.
Alprazolam – typically prescribed to treat conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures – has depressant effects on the central nervous system which can cause drowsiness and sedation.
Carter’s death was ruled as an accident by the medical examiner.
Carter began performing when he was seven and released two albums, both selling millions of copies.
This success led to appearances on Nickelodeon and tours with the Backstreet Boys and on Britney Spears’ Oops!… I Did It Again tour.
Later in his career he appeared on numerous reality television shows including Dancing with The Stars and US talk show called The Doctors, where he tested positive for prescription drugs which he said he took for anxiety and sleep.
He entered a rehab facility after his appearance on the show in 2017.
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His relationship with his siblings was strained over the years and in 2019, his brother Nick filed a restraining order against him, alleging he threatened to kill his pregnant wife and unborn child.
In a tribute to his “baby brother”, the singer wrote that despite their “complicated relationship, my love for him has never ever faded”.
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.
