(L.A.) James Mendoza, 59, Died at a Hotel

Case Number: 2024-19551

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 59-year-old Latino male that occurred at a hotel.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as James Mendoza.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death: Acute Intoxication by the Combined Effects of Methamphetamine and Ephedrine

RIP JAMES MENDOZA (May 29, 1965 – December 15, 2024)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Sunday at 12:25 a.m.

Ruling by the deputy medical examiner was published in March, presumably after the results of tox screening had come back from the lab.

This is considered an accidental, i.e., unintentional, drug overdose.

Ephedrine is used in combination with other ingredients like guaifenesin in cough and cold products to treat symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It’s often included in over-the-counter medications for temporary relief of breathing difficulties related to conditions like asthma, allergies, and other respiratory illnesses. Ephedrine’s stimulant properties can produce a “high” or feelings of excitement, which some users seek for recreational purposes.

Meth is similarly a stimulant. The sympathomimetic properties of both drugs may lead to a stronger overall stimulant effect on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.