Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke found dead in Los Angeles; investigation deferred
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has deferred the cause of death pending toxicology results, following the discovery of drug paraphernalia at the scene.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, 29, was found dead at a residence near Los Angeles on Monday, prompting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. First responders pronounced him dead at the scene, and the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office has since performed an autopsy. However, the cause of death remains deferred pending the return of toxicology and other test results, a process that could take several weeks to complete.
A person familiar with the investigation told The Associated Press on Tuesday that drug paraphernalia was discovered at the residence where Clarke was found. The coroner’s office has confirmed that the case remains open and that the coroner’s work is complete, with the delay solely attributable to the pending laboratory tests. Investigators are also examining other elements of the incident, including the identity of the individual who made the 911 call and any other contributing factors.
Clarke’s death follows a legal incident in Arkansas earlier this year. On April 1, he was arrested for speeding and possession of kratom, an herbal supplement promoted as an alternative pain remedy. He was released on bond the following day. Clarke was under contract with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season and had spent his entire seven-year professional career with the franchise after playing college basketball at Gonzaga.
The Grizzlies posted a tribute video on Friday, stating that Clarke’s “legacy will carry on in the hearts of Grizz Nation, always and forever.” In Memphis, fans have gathered at the plaza outside FedEx Forum to place flowers and mementos. It remains unclear whether the team will hold a public memorial or when Clarke’s family will conduct funeral services.
Clarke missed all but two games of the current 2025–26 season due to a right knee injury requiring surgery and a right calf strain. This marked the second time in three seasons he was sidelined for nearly an entire year due to injuries. Health officials have issued warnings regarding 7-hydroxymitragynine, an opioid-related chemical component of kratom, noting that a 2019 federal report found overdose deaths involving the substance were more common than previously reported.
