American Idol star Doug Kiker’s cause of death aged 32 revealed
He died in March.
American Idol star Doug Kiker’s cause of death has been revealed.
The singer died aged 32 in March.
It’s now been revealed that Kiker died from an opioid overdose.
According to TMZ, the City and County of Denver Medical Examiner’s report revealed he died from the combined toxic effects of fentanyl, methadone and amphetamines with recent cocaine use.
His death was ruled an accident.
Kiker’s sister Angela Evans announced last month on Facebook: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker.
‘He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! You’re singing with the Angel’s now Bubba.
‘Please pray for our family as we go through this very difficult time.’
Kiker died from an opioid overdose, with his death being ruled an accident (Picture: Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty Images)In another post, Angela revealed that his death was ‘completely unexpected’ and his family was ‘completely unprepared’.
She added that his family would need financial assistance in getting his body from Denver, Colorado.
Their family has since opened a GoFundMe page, saying: ‘Help Us Lay Our Loved One to Rest It is with heavy hearts that we have to say goodbye to one of the most sincere souls and most hilarious person of all.
‘Douglas, a beloved son, brother, father and friend.
His family have paid tribute and set up a GoFundMe page (Picture: ABC)‘We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses.
‘We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’s memory and give him a proper farewell.
‘Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden.
‘Thank you for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. We greatly appreciate each and everyone of yall.’
The former garbage man blew the judges and fans away (Picture: ABC)More than $6,000 (£4,500) has been raised at the time of writing.
The former garbage man appeared on the 18th series of the talent competition in 2020, and left judge Katy Perry in tears after sharing his story.
He auditioned with Rascal Flatts’ Bless the Broken Road and received a standing ovation from the judges including Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
Despite having no professional singing experience, having only sung in his garbage truck, Doug wowed the judges and was sent to the next stage, but didn’t make it past Hollywood week or reach the top 20 in the competition.
‘I just don’t want to let my family down… I’ve been a good man my whole life,’ he said at the time, according to Mail Online.
A year after his audition, Kiker was arrested and charged with domestic violence.
He had two daughters who he shared with his ex-fiancée Valerie Cook.
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