Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber have broken their silence nearly a month after the death of their 27-year-old son, Presley Gerber, who died at a Santa Monica rehabilitation facility on September 20. The family released a joint statement on social media expressing profound grief, while police continue to investigate the incident as a suspected drug overdose.
Family Tributes After the Loss of Presley Gerber
The grieving family shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, confirming the loss of their eldest child. “We are beyond heartbroken to lose our beloved son and brother,” the statement read. The family noted they felt blessed to have had Presley in their lives for 27 years, praising him for showing up in the world with “kindness and vulnerability.”
Presley’s younger sister, Kaia Gerber, also posted a dedicated tribute featuring childhood videos and photographs alongside a lengthy, emotional letter. “You know how much I loved being your sister. It has always been, and will forever be, my favourite thing about myself,” she wrote. Friends and public figures, including Paris Hilton, Taylor Lautner, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Suki Waterhouse, offered condolences in the comments of the post.
Close family friend George Clooney also addressed the tragedy during an appearance in London, calling it “one of the most devastating things that’s happened to our family.”
Detectives probe suspected overdose as official cause remains deferred
The Santa Monica Police Department confirmed that officers responded to a call on the 1000 block of Berkeley St at approximately 9:35 a.m. on September 20. Responding paramedics pronounced Presley dead at 9:45 a.m., according to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.
Authorities stated that detectives are investigating the death as a suspected overdose, emphasizing that there is no indication of foul play. While the medical examiner has completed an examination, an official ruling on the cause and manner of death remains deferred pending additional testing and studies, a process that officials note can take several months.
Loved ones plan private Malibu memorial service following cremation
Following his death, Presley Gerber was cremated at the Rose Family Funeral Home in California. Family sources indicated that loved ones are planning a small, private service of remembrance in Malibu, chosen specifically because of his deep affection for surfing and the beach.
Sources speaking to People magazine explained that making final arrangements has proved difficult while family and friends deal with their emotional grief. The primary goal remains keeping the memorial intimate, despite a high volume of requests from individuals wishing to attend.
Advocacy for Mental Health and Addiction Awareness
Throughout his life, Presley Gerber worked as a fashion model after making his runway debut for Moschino at age 15, later collaborating with brands such as Calvin Klein, Celine, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, and Bottega Veneta.
In recent years, he spoke publicly about his personal battles with mental health, depression, and substance abuse. He utilized his platform to host a social media series titled “Mental Health Mondays” and discussed his recovery journey on podcasts, expressing a desire to help others facing similar struggles.
Police investigate suspected drug overdose at rehabilitation facility
What caused the death of Presley Gerber?
The Santa Monica Police Department is investigating the death as a suspected drug overdose. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner completed an examination, but the official cause of death remains deferred pending further testing.
Where did the incident occur?
Emergency responders were called to a rehabilitation facility located on the 1000 block of Berkeley Street in Santa Monica, California, on the morning of September 20.
What did authorities say about foul play?
The Santa Monica Police Department stated that there is no indication of foul play involved in the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Related reading