The FBI is currently conducting an investigation into the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, as reported by the Washington Post. This inquiry follows the issuance of a federal grand jury subpoena aimed at gathering records related to Irsay’s death, drug use, and his relationship with Dr. Harry Haroutunian, a physician based in California.
Irsay passed away in May 2025, and his death certificate identifies cardiac arrest caused by acute pneumonia as the primary cause of death, with two underlying heart conditions contributing to the situation. Notably, the certificate was signed by Dr. Haroutunian.
As part of the investigation, FBI agents reportedly visited Indianapolis earlier this month and interviewed individuals who were close to Irsay during the latter part of his life. While the Colts’ chief legal officer, Dan Emerson, stated that the team has not received a subpoena or been contacted by the FBI, the inquiry continues to unfold.
Additional context reveals that in the two years leading up to Irsay’s passing, Dr. Haroutunian prescribed large amounts of opioids to him and began administering ketamine treatments in 2024. While ketamine is an FDA-approved general anesthetic, it is also used off-label for various mental health conditions, such as depression. The drug has known effects that include sedation, increased heart rate, and variations in blood pressure. Importantly, ketamine was not mentioned on Irsay’s death certificate as a contributing factor, and authorities in Beverly Hills, where the death occurred, did not suspect an overdose.
This investigation raises pressing questions regarding the responsibility of medical practitioners in prescribing controlled substances, particularly in cases involving high-profile individuals like Irsay. As more information emerges, it will be crucial to maintain transparency and accountability in the medical community to ensure patient safety.
Overall, while this investigation brings to light serious concerns, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for careful monitoring of prescription practices and the potential risks associated with the use of powerful medications like ketamine.