(L.A.) Leopoldo Cortez, 35, Died From Coke Use

Case Number: 2024-09907

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 35-year-old Latino male that occurred at his residence.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as Leopoldo Cortez.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death: Ruptured Cerebral Aneurysm

Other Significant Condition: Effects of Cocaine

RIP LEOPOLDO CORTEZ (August 13, 1988 – June 20, 2024)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Thursday at 8:35 p.m.

Ruling by the deputy medical examiner was published on August 20, presumably after the results of tox screening had come back positive for the coke.

This is considered an accidental drug overdose.

Cocaine use has been linked to an increased risk of cerebral aneurysm rupture, particularly through mechanisms involving hypertension and vascular injury.

The drug’s effect on the sympathetic nervous system can lead to repeated episodes of vasoconstriction and vascular injury, potentially resulting in the necrosis of arterial walls. This damage may predispose individuals to aneurysm formation and subsequent rupture.