(L.A.) Timothy Reed III, 52, Died at a Private Residence

Case Number: 2025-04053

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 52-year-old Black male that occurred at a private residence.

The coroner’s office identified the man as Timothy Reed III.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death A: Complications of Food Aspiration

Cause of Death B: Distal Esophageal Ulcer with Stenosis

Cause of Death C: Barrett’s Esophagus

Other Significant Condition: Methamphetamine Use

RIP TIMOTHY REED III (September 27, 1972 – March 3, 2025)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Monday at 9:13 p.m.

Ruling by the deputy medical examiner was published on May 8.

Food went down the wrong pipe because his esophagus was structurally damaged and not functioning properly.

Barrett’s esophagus is primarily caused by chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where repeated exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid leads to damage and inflammation of the esophageal lining.

Methamphetamine use has been documented to cause esophageal ulceration and inflammation, likely due to vasoconstriction-induced ischemia and direct mucosal injury. This can result in severe esophagitis and ulceration.

In summary: Methamphetamine use may have damaged the decedent’s esophagus, causing ulceration and possibly contributing to Barrett’s esophagus. The resulting esophageal dysfunction led to food aspiration, which ultimately caused his death.