FBI Probes Death of Former Colts Owner Jim Irsay Amid Addiction Claims

The FBI has launched an investigation into the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, who passed away in his sleep on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65. The inquiry also focuses on Dr. Harry Haroutunian, a California addiction specialist who prescribed Irsay pain medications, including opioids and ketamine, in the final months of his life. According to a report by the Washington Post, a federal grand jury subpoena has requested records related to Irsay’s alleged substance use and his relationship with Haroutunian.

Irsay’s death certificate, signed by Haroutunian, cites the cause of death as cardiac arrest due to acute pneumonia, with additional heart conditions noted as contributing factors. Interestingly, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner did not conduct an autopsy or further investigation at the time of his death, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding it.

The Colts’ Chief Legal Officer, Dan Emerson, confirmed to the Washington Post that the team is aware of the investigation but stated that the FBI has not reached out to the organization or served any subpoenas. “I do understand that there have been some subpoenas provided, but not to me, the Colts or any of our current employees,” Emerson remarked.

Irsay took over the Colts in 1997 following the death of his father, Robert Irsay. He was candid about his struggles with addiction, which became public knowledge in 2002. In 2014, following a driving incident, he pleaded guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated, receiving a year of probation and a fine of $500,000 from the NFL, alongside a six-game suspension.

In a revealing interview with USA Today at the time, Irsay expressed the complexities of addiction, stating, “A lot of people don’t understand the disease. They think you choose an addiction.” His daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—have since emphasized their father’s openness about his battles with addiction and mental health, requesting privacy during this difficult time.

Reports indicate that Irsay experienced multiple relapses in the months leading up to his death. An investigation by the Washington Post revealed that he had overdosed at least three times since February 2020, including two incidents within a short period in late 2023 and early 2024. Haroutunian reportedly prescribed over 200 opioid pills shortly before Irsay’s passing and introduced ketamine into his treatment plan.

“I dedicated 18 months of my life to try to care for him…as a brother,” Haroutunian told the Washington Post, highlighting the challenges of managing Irsay’s condition. While the investigation continues, Irsay’s daughters issued a statement reflecting their focus on honoring their father’s legacy, which includes his philanthropic efforts, loyalty to the Colts and its fans, and advocacy for mental health.

Emerson declined to comment further, asserting that the organization handled all matters related to Irsay’s health in an appropriate and ethical manner. He expressed a desire for the media to allow Irsay to rest in peace, amidst the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the circumstances of his death.