Indianapolis, Indiana – Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay was found unresponsive at his home last month in what police suspect to be a case of overdose. The incident occurred on December 8th, when officers in Carmel, Indiana, responded to an emergency call and discovered Irsay struggling to breathe. Details from the police report indicate that authorities attempted to reverse the opioid overdose using medication.
The Colts released a statement on January 9th, informing the public that Irsay was being treated for a severe respiratory illness. The team reiterated this information and requested privacy for the owner and his family in a statement released on Wednesday.
This is not the first time Irsay has publicly struggled with addiction. In a November 2023 interview with HBO’s Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel, he revealed that he had battled addiction in the past and had been to rehab numerous times. He also alleged that his 2014 arrest for driving under the influence was a result of prejudice against him as a wealthy, white billionaire. Despite criticism, Irsay stood by his remarks, asserting that he knows the truth.
The 64-year-old owner faced legal consequences for his DUI arrest in 2014. The NFL suspended Irsay for the first six games of the following season and fined him $500,000. During the incident, police discovered various prescription drugs, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam, in his vehicle, along with a significant amount of cash.
Jim Irsay assumed ownership of the Colts in 1997 following a legal battle with his stepmother over his late father’s estate. Robert Irsay, Jim’s father, had acquired his wealth through a successful career in heating and air-conditioning companies before purchasing the Baltimore Colts and relocating the team to Indianapolis in 1984.
As Irsay continues to recover from his recent health issues, the Colts organization remains tight-lipped about his personal health. They ask for respect and privacy during this time. The story remains ongoing, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by individuals battling addiction.