At a Glance
- Former Colts owner Jim Irsay died in May 2025.
- FBI opened a probe after a Washington Post report of multiple overdoses.
- A federal subpoena seeks records of Irsay’s drug use and his care by Dr. Harry Haroutunian.
- The Colts have not yet received any FBI summons.
Former Colts owner Jim Irsay died in May 2025 after a quiet night in his sleep, according to a statement released by the team. The death has taken a dramatic turn when the FBI opened an investigation, prompted by a Washington Post article that detailed Irsay’s long-term painkiller addiction and three overdoses in the five years before his passing.
FBI Opens Investigation
The Colts confirmed Friday that the FBI is investigating Irsay’s death. “We are aware of the investigation, but at this time, we’ve not been contacted by the FBI or been served with any subpoenas,” the organization said in a statement.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy added that the league would not comment on the report. The investigation centers on records related to Irsay’s substance use and his relationship with addiction specialist Dr. Harry Haroutunian.
Subpoena Details
A federal grand jury subpoena, reviewed by the Washington Post, indicates the FBI is seeking:
- Documents on Irsay’s substance (illegal and prescription) use.
- Information about his relationship with Dr. Harry Haroutunian.
- Any other records that might explain the circumstances of his death.
The subpoena was issued by the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California earlier this month. Morgan J. Carter left a message Friday seeking comment from Haroutunian, who the Post reported had prescribed pain pills and ketamine to Irsay in the months before his May 2025 death.
Medical and Legal Context
In August, the Post reported that Irsay was prescribed ketamine, a drug most commonly used as a general anesthetic, in his final months. Police were called to the hotel room in Beverly Hills, California, where he died. Haroutunian was staying at the hotel and overseeing Irsay’s treatment, and the doctor signed the death certificate.
The Post wrote that Irsay’s official cause of death was listed as “cardiac arrest due to pneumonia and heart issues,” but no autopsy was performed. Beverly Hills police closed their investigation into the death days later.
Family Response
When the first Post story was published in August, Irsay’s three daughters-Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson-issued a statement. They said their father “never claimed to be perfect” and acknowledged he used his voice “to reduce the stigma” of addiction and mental health issues to advocate for those who fought similar battles.
Next Steps
The Colts have not been served with any subpoenas, but the FBI’s request for records indicates the investigation is still active. The league remains silent, and the family has expressed support for a thorough inquiry.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2025 | Irsay’s death announced by Colts. |
| Late August 2024 | Washington Post reports overdoses and addiction. |
| Early September 2024 | FBI issues subpoena through Central District of California. |
| September 2024 | Colts confirm FBI investigation; no subpoenas received. |
The unfolding investigation highlights the intersection of professional sports, personal health struggles, and federal law enforcement. The Colts’ statement that they have not been contacted by the FBI underscores the uncertainty surrounding the case, while the subpoena’s focus on medical records points to a deeper inquiry into Irsay’s treatment and the circumstances of his death.
Key Takeaways
- The FBI is actively investigating the death of former Colts owner Jim Irsay.
- A federal subpoena seeks records of Irsay’s drug use and care by Dr. Haroutunian.
- The Colts have not yet received any summons, but the investigation remains open.
- The family’s statement emphasizes Irsay’s advocacy for addiction awareness.
- No autopsy was performed; police closed their investigation shortly after the death.
