Anne Burrell’s death is reportedly under investigation as a possible drug overdose.
According to a new report published by The New York Times on Friday, June 20, which cites an internal document viewed by the outlet, the New York City Police Department is investigating whether a possible drug overdose caused Burrell’s death.
The celebrity chef was found dead in her Brooklyn home on Tuesday, June 17. According to the document seen by The New York Times, Burrell was “discovered in the shower unconscious and unresponsive surrounded by approximately (100) assorted pills.” Her official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
News of the Food Network star’s death broke the same day, with a family confirming Burrell’s passing in a statement to Us Weekly.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” Burrell’s family told Us in a statement at the time. “Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
A representative for the New York City Police Department previously confirmed to Us that Burrell had been pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities had responded to a 911 call, during which they discovered that she was “unconscious and unresponsive.”
Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton and stepson Javier, as well as her mother, Marlene, and sister, Jane.
After news broke of Burrell’s death, tributes flowed for the celebrity chef as those who knew her, worked with her, or were a fan of her, offered their condolences.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning,” Food Network wrote in a Tuesday statement. “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent — teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Friend and fellow celebrity chef Rachael Ray, who was a bridesmaid at Burrell’s wedding, was among those to publicly pay tribute to Burrell.
Ray shared a statement on Wednesday, revealing the chef’s death has “truly shaken” her and her husband, John Cusimano.
“I can’t quite believe it — such a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love, could be gone so soon,” Ray, 56, wrote via Instagram. “Anne was a rockstar! I came to know her well through multiple seasons of Worst Cooks on Food Network, and she became so much more than a colleague.”
She added: “I’ll miss her friendship deeply. Everyone whose life she touched will miss her. Sending love to Stuart and everyone who knew and loved Anne. We’ve lost someone truly special.”
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