‘American Idol’ alum Doug Kiker had toxic cocktail of drugs in his system at time of death: report
Doug Kiker’s cause of death has been disclosed one month after his shocking passing.
The “American Idol” died from an accidental opioid overdose, the Denver Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to The Post on Thursday.
Kiker passed away with a toxic cocktail of drugs in his system, with the report highlighting his cause of death was due to “the combined toxic effects of fentanyl, methadone and amphetamines, with recent cocaine use.”
TMZ was the first to break the story.
Kiker died on March 10 at age 32.
He was known as “The Singing Garbage Man” on Season 18 of “American Idol.”
Kiker’s sister, Angela Evans, confirmed his death in an emotional Facebook post on March 12.
“It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother, Douglas Kiker,” she wrote. “He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! You’re singing with the angels now Bubba. Please pray for our family as we go [through] this very difficult time.”
The Alabama native’s brother also broke his silence.
“Dear brother I just want you to know that [no] matter where you are you will always be my baby brother I know you are finally at piece I just wish I had more time with you so until I can see you again say hey to bubba for me and tell him I love him rest in peace Douglas Kiker my baby brother.”
Meanwhile, Kiker’s ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook, shared that her children had lost their father.
The star’s loved ones set up a GoFundMe page to help offset his funeral costs. They raised a total of $6,308, far exceeding its goal of $4,500.
At the time, the Denver Medical Examiner’s Office told The Post that “the cause and manner” surrounding the singer’s death were “pending investigation.”
It was later reported that the “American Idol” performer had sparked panic over his health and safety, with a good Samaritan calling 911 to report a potential overdose.
According to TMZ, the passerby saw Kiker wandering a Denver street and looking unwell before his death.
They reported the incident to authorities, noting they suspected he had been experiencing a drug overdose.
Sources told the outlet that drugs allegedly caused Kiker to have a heart attack.
He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he stayed for five days until his death.
Kiker made a name for himself while auditioning for Season 18 of “American Idol” in 2019.
Luke Bryan eased his nerves by playing piano as the musician sang Rascal Flatts’ 2004 classic “Bless the Broken Road.” Kiker’s performance made Katy Perry tear up, and Lionel Richie handed him the Golden Ticket.
“You’re going to Hollywood,” the judges told him at the same time.
While he made it to Tinseltown, Kiker did not make it past that round.
