American Idol alum Doug Kiker’s official cause of death has been revealed one month later.
The singer died from an opioid overdose, according to a report from the City and County of Denver Medical Examiner obtained by TMZ on Thursday, April 17. Kiker’s death was reportedly caused by “the combined toxic effects of fentanyl, methadone, and amphetamines, with recent cocaine use” and was ruled an accident.
The singer’s sister Angela Evans confirmed the news of Kiker’s death at age 32 in a 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.”
TMZ reported in March that a pedestrian in Denver called the police after seeing Kiker on the side of the road. The singer was hospitalized and died several days later.
Kiker appeared on season 18 of American Idol, auditioning with a rendition of the Rascal Flatts song “God Bless This Broken Road.”
The performance was widely praised by the judges, especially Lionel Richie.
“For a man who has no idea what his voice can do, for a man who has no idea what key he’s singing in, for a man who has no idea who the heck he can be, he’s here to do one thing: He’s trying to show his daughter that he’s somebody,” he said following Kiker’s audition. “I want us all to let you know, you’re a hell of a man. I want you to come get this ticket. You’re going to Hollywood!”
He was eliminated, however, during the next round following a performance of Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Another one of Kiker’s sisters, Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, issued a separate statement last month following his death.
“Today, I got the call that no one wants to get. We lost an amazing person today. He had the biggest smile and knew how to make you laugh,” she shared via Facebook. “I know I didn’t raise him, but I never stopped loving him. My parents did an amazing job with him. Douglas Kiker, you will forever be missed. Fly high. Say hey to grandma.”
Kiker is survived by his parents, his sisters and his two children.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
