How Did Matthew Perry Die? Medical Examiner Gives Update on Friends Actor's Cause of Death Report

Matthew Perry died on Saturday, October 28, at the age of 54. The Friends actor was found dead in his Los Angeles house. Initial reports claimed that he died of apparent drowning. However, a new update on his cause of death has been reported. As reported by CNN, Los Angeles County Medical Examiner will need additional investigative steps before sharing the conclusion on Matthew’s cause of death. As per the online record, the actor’s cause of death has been mentioned as ‘deferred’ (as of Monday afternoon, IST).

The LA coroner’s guidelines mention, “In cases where the cause of death cannot be determined at the time of autopsy, a deferred certificate will be issued until additional studies have been completed.” The report added that the examiners are awaiting toxicology reports to determine if any foreign substances that might have contributed to the actor’s death. While the reports are awaited, a law enforcement source informed the international publication that they suspect no foul play.

Meanwhile, Matthew’s family issued an official statement, saying that his fans and well-wishers “meant so much” to him. “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother,” the family said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. “Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend. You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.”

Matthew’s Friends co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow are yet to publicly react to his sudden death. However, a source told Page Six that the cast will be issuing a joint statement. “The cast is reeling from the loss of their brother, because that’s what Matty was — their brother,” a source told the international outlet. “It’s just devastating,” the insider said before adding, “The entire cast are close, they will be devastated, because they were together through the best of times and worst of times. And when Matty was sick, they protected him, they looked him after him fiercely.”