Danny Gans death ruled an accident
Las Vegas performer Danny Gans’ death was ruled an accidental, caused by a prescription painkiller, a coroner said Tuesday.
Clark County Coroner Mike Murphy said an autopsy, toxicology and microscopic samples showed the 52-year-old Gans died from toxic levels of the prescription drug hydromorphone, commonly known as Dilaudid. The opiate drug is used to treat chronic pain, which Gans suffered from, Murphy said.
Gans was found dead in bed at home in Henderson early May 1 after his wife, Julie, reported she couldn’t rouse him.
Gans’s unexpected death sparked rumors of drug use particularly steroids, rumors his management fought vigorously to dismiss.
Murphy said Gans had heart disease caused by high blood pressure:
“Mr. Gans’ health conditions placed him at greater risk for heart irregularities, and the hydromorphone was a factor in exacerbating those risks,” Murphy said.
Gans was a singer, comedian, actor and impressionist who performed for many years at The Mirage before moving to the Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas in February and was named “Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year” for 11 consecutive years. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and three children.
