CARMEL, Ind. – Emergency responders discovered Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay unresponsive and struggling to breathe when they arrived at his home in Carmel last month in an incident categorized as a suspected overdose by police.
According to records obtained through a public records request, emergency responders were dispatched to Irsay’s residence on W. 116th Street around 4:30 a.m. on Dec. 8.
A supplemental report indicated that Carmel police were called to assist with an unresponsive male who was breathing but turning blue. The report identified the individual as 64-year-old Irsay.
The report stated that Irsay had fallen in the bathroom and was subsequently moved to a bed, where he remained unresponsive and struggled to breathe.
Responding officers noted in the report that Irsay was unconscious, had abnormal breathing, a weak pulse, and was cold to the touch.
Despite attempts to awaken him with a sternum rub, Irsay remained unresponsive. An officer administered naloxone (Narcan) before medics arrived, which elicited a slight response. Naloxone is used to counteract opiate overdoses.
While the officers were prepared to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), the paramedics assumed control of the situation and transported Irsay to a nearby hospital.
The police report indicated that it remained unknown what substances Irsay might have ingested prior to their arrival. The report also mentioned that Irsay had been prescribed multiple medications, which were redacted in the documents provided.
Irsay made an appearance at the Pittsburgh Steelers game on Dec. 16, but he has since been absent from the public eye due to a severe respiratory illness for which he is currently receiving treatment. Consequently, he canceled a scheduled performance with the Jim Irsay Band in Los Angeles.
The Colts issued a statement assuring that Irsay is receiving excellent care and expressed their hope for his swift return to the stage, while also maintaining their request for privacy on his behalf.
Irsay has previously been candid about his struggles with addiction. In 2002, he acknowledged an addiction to painkillers that began in 1995. In a recent interview with HBO’s “Real Sports,” Irsay revealed that he had been to rehab at least 15 times and recounted a previous overdose where he nearly died.
In 2014, Irsay faced legal consequences after being stopped by Carmel police for driving erratically. They discovered prescription drugs and a substantial amount of cash in his vehicle. A subsequent toxicology report revealed the presence of oxycodone, hydrocodone, and an anxiety medication.
As a result, Irsay pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count, incurred a fine from the NFL, and served a six-game suspension.