Executive Summary
- The FBI has opened an investigation into the death of Jim Irsay, focusing on his substance use and medical care.
- A federal grand jury subpoena is seeking records related to Irsay’s relationship with Dr. Harry Haroutunian.
- Dr. Haroutunian signed Irsay’s death certificate; no autopsy was performed at the time of his death in May.
- Reports allege the physician prescribed significant quantities of opioids, contributing to prior overdoses.
Federal authorities have launched an investigation into the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, specifically examining the circumstances surrounding his passing and the medical care provided in his final months. According to documents reviewed by The Washington Post, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is focusing on Irsay’s substance use and the role of his California-based physician, Dr. Harry Haroutunian.
A federal grand jury subpoena reportedly indicates that authorities are seeking records and information regarding Irsay’s death, his use of illegal and prescription substances, and his relationship with Haroutunian. The Washington Post reported that FBI agents have conducted interviews in Indianapolis this month with individuals close to the late NFL owner to gather context regarding his final years.
Irsay died in May 2025 at the age of 65. At the time, Dr. Haroutunian signed the death certificate, listing the cause of death as cardiac arrest triggered by acute pneumonia. Authorities noted that no autopsy was performed. Investigative reporting by The Washington Post in August alleged that Haroutunian had supplied ketamine and opioid pills to Irsay, contributing to a secret relapse.
Further investigations cited by the publication revealed allegations that Haroutunian prescribed more than 200 opioid pills to Irsay, which reportedly resulted in two overdoses within a two-week span. Irsay had previously founded “Kicking the Stigma,” a nonprofit initiative aimed at mental health awareness, and had publicly discussed his struggles with addiction.
Indianapolis Colts Chief Legal Officer Dan Emerson addressed the situation, stating that the organization is aware of the inquiry. “I do understand that there have been some subpoenas provided, but not to me, the Colts, or any of our current employees,” Emerson said in a statement reported by The Post.
Investigative Outlook
The involvement of the FBI and a federal grand jury suggests a significant escalation in scrutiny regarding the medical practices associated with Irsay’s treatment. Federal investigations into overdose-related deaths frequently focus on the chain of distribution for controlled substances and whether prescribing practices violated federal statutes. This probe highlights the continued focus by the Department of Justice on the responsibility of medical practitioners in managing patients with known addiction histories. It is important to note that Dr. Haroutunian and all individuals involved in this investigation are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
