FBI Probes Jim Irsay’s Death and Doctor Regarding Ketamine Prescriptions

2026-01-23 general

Indianapolis, Thursday, 22 January 2026.
Federal agents are investigating Colts owner Jim Irsay’s death and Dr. Harry Haroutunian, focusing on whether the physician improperly prescribed ketamine and opioids during Irsay’s final months.

Federal Scrutiny and Grand Jury Subpoenas

The investigation into the death of Jim Irsay, who passed away in May 2025 at the age of 65, has escalated with the involvement of a federal grand jury [1][4]. Earlier this month, the FBI issued a subpoena seeking records related to Irsay’s death, his substance use, and his medical relationship with Dr. Harry Haroutunian, a California-based addiction specialist [2][3]. Federal investigators recently spent several days in Indianapolis conducting interviews with individuals close to the late NFL owner to piece together the circumstances of his final years [2][7]. While the inquiry is active, the Indianapolis Colts organization clarified its current standing in the legal process. Dan Emerson, the team’s chief legal officer, stated on Thursday that while he understands subpoenas have been issued, neither he, the team, nor current employees have been served [2][5].

Medical Liability and Ketamine Scrutiny

At the center of the probe is the medical care provided by Dr. Haroutunian, who was treating Irsay at the Beverly Hills Hotel at the time of his death [5]. Reports indicate that Haroutunian prescribed Irsay significant quantities of opioids and ketamine in the months leading up to his passing [1][6]. Specifically, allegations suggest the physician prescribed over 200 opioid pills, which reportedly contributed to two separate overdose incidents in December 2023—one in Indianapolis and another in Miami [2][4]. The scrutiny regarding ketamine usage draws parallels to recent medical liability cases, such as the prosecution of physicians connected to the death of actor Matthew Perry, as federal authorities increasingly monitor the off-label prescription of the drug for mental health treatments [3].

Questions Surrounding the Cause of Death

The circumstances of Irsay’s official cause of death are now under federal review. Following his death in May 2025, no autopsy was performed [1][5]. Instead, Dr. Haroutunian signed the death certificate, listing the cause as cardiac arrest triggered by acute pneumonia, with heart conditions noted as contributing factors [3][7]. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner had previously closed its investigation, determining the death was not sudden, and police at the scene reported no immediate signs of an overdose [7]. However, the revelation that Haroutunian supplied ketamine and opioids during a period when Irsay had secretly relapsed has prompted federal agents to re-examine whether these prescriptions violated controlled substance regulations [4][5].

Legacy and Leadership Stability

This criminal probe casts a shadow over the legacy of an owner who was open about his battles with addiction and founded the “Kicking the Stigma” initiative to support mental health awareness [4][5]. Following Irsay’s death, ownership of the franchise transitioned to his three daughters: Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson [7]. The leadership group remains active in team operations, with Irsay-Gordon addressing the media as recently as January 5, 2026, regarding coaching and management decisions [4]. As the 2026 offseason progresses, the organization faces the dual challenge of managing its on-field future while navigating the legal complexities surrounding its late patriarch’s medical history.

Sources

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