Actress Anne Heche’s cause of death has been revealed.
The manner in which Heche died has been ruled an accident, according to the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner-Coroner.
The report also stated that Heche sustained “sternal fracture due to blunt trauma” and the cause of death was detailed as “inhalation and thermal injuries.”
In a statement to CNN, Heche’s family and friends said she also experienced “severe anoxic brain injury,” where oxygen no longer reached her brain.
Her body has since been released, according to the report.
On August 5, Heche’s car crashed into a home in Los Angeles.
Heche, 53, was taken off of life support on Sunday. She was considered “brain dead” on Friday.
“We have lost a bright light, a kind and most joyful soul, a loving mother, and a loyal friend. Anne will be deeply missed but she lives on through her beautiful sons, her iconic body of work, and her passionate advocacy. Her bravery for always standing in her truth, spreading her message of love and acceptance, will continue to have a lasting impact,” a representative for Heche’s family told TMZ in a statement.
Coley Laffoon, Heche’s ex-husband and the father of their son, homer, posted a video on his Instagram on August 12 speaking about Heche’s death:
“In the wake of Anne’s passing, I just wanted to say a few things: One, I love her and I miss her, and I’m always going to. Two, Homer is OK. He’s grieving, of course, and it’s rough, it’s really rough, as probably anybody can imagine. But he’s surrounded by family and he’s going to be OK. So for all those people checking in, thank you… showing us your heart, offering prayers and everything. It’s so beautiful. Thank you.”
Heche’s son, Homer Laffoon, also made a statement to E! News about his mother’s passing: “My brother Atlas and I lost our Mom. After six days of almost unbelievable emotional swings, I am left with a deep, wordless sadness.”
“Hopefully my mom is free from pain and beginning to explore what I like to imagine as her eternal freedom,” he added.
Continuing, he said, “Over those six days, thousands of friends, family, and fans made their hearts known to me. I am grateful for their love, as I am for the support of my Dad, Coley, and my stepmom Alexi who continue to be my rock during this time. Rest In Peace Mom, I love you, Homer.”
