What's happened
The FBI is examining the death of Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, focusing on his substance use and relationship with addiction specialist Dr. Harry Haroutunian. Irsay died last May, with authorities seeking records related to his drug history and circumstances of death amid ongoing investigations.
What's behind the headline?
The investigation into Irsay’s death underscores the complex issues surrounding celebrity addiction and medical oversight. The federal subpoena signals a shift from a private tragedy to a potential legal matter, highlighting concerns over prescription practices and the influence of addiction specialists. The absence of an autopsy leaves questions about the true cause of death, while the focus on his relationship with Dr. Haroutunian suggests possible misconduct or negligence. This case exemplifies the broader crisis of prescription drug abuse among high-profile individuals and the need for stricter oversight. The investigation may lead to legal consequences for those involved and could influence future policies on addiction treatment and prescription monitoring. For the public, it emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in managing addiction, especially among influential figures.
What the papers say
The Washington Post reports that a federal grand jury subpoena is seeking records related to Irsay’s death, his substance use, and his relationship with Dr. Harry Haroutunian, indicating an active investigation. AP News highlights that Irsay’s official cause of death was cardiac arrest, but no autopsy was performed, raising questions about the true circumstances. The NY Post and NBC News detail Irsay’s secret relapse, his treatment with ketamine and opioids, and the overdoses in December 2023, emphasizing the ongoing concerns about prescription drug misuse and the potential legal implications. These sources collectively reveal a pattern of concern over the management of Irsay’s addiction and the possible misconduct of his medical providers, with investigations now extending into legal territory.
How we got here
Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts since 1997, died in May 2025 at age 65. Officially listed as due to cardiac arrest, his death followed a history of substance abuse, including multiple overdoses. Reports indicate he was secretly relapsing and receiving ketamine and opioids from Dr. Haroutunian, raising questions about the circumstances of his death and the role of his medical treatment.
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Daniel Naroditsky, often referred to as Danya, was an American chess grandmaster, author, and commentator. He won the Under-12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship in 2007 and the US Junior Championship in 2013, the same year he was officially aw
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James Stephen Irsay (June 13, 1959 – May 21, 2025) was an American billionaire businessman who was the principal owner, chairman, and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL) from 1997 until his death in 2025.
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The Indianapolis Colts are an American football team based in Indianapolis. The Colts compete in the National Football League as a member club of the league's American Football Conference South division.
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.