Medical Examiner Reveals Shocking Cause of Death for Comedian’s Friend Found at His Home

A medical examiner has verified that comedian Paul Rodriguez’s associate Donald Serrato passed away from a fentanyl overdose inside the comedian’s residence.

The examiner reported that Serrato died due to the mixed effects of fentanyl, PCP, and methamphetamine, as detailed in a report published by TMZ on Thursday. The outlet had earlier mentioned that Serrato had been at the comedian’s home for several days and was discovered deceased in November. Rodriguez stated he left home to work on a Hollywood production and called Serrato around noon to invite him to lunch. He grew worried when he did not receive a response from his friend.

TMZ also reported that Rodriguez contacted his girlfriend to check on Serrato after he was unable to reach him. She went to the home and discovered him deceased inside.

This is not the first occasion the well-known comedian has been associated with fentanyl.

He is presently in dispute with the Burbank Police Department regarding a recent arrest for alleged drug possession.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 23: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Comedian Paul Rodriguez performs at the Jimmy Shin’s “Wok This Way” Comedy Special Release Screening And Show at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on January 23, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael S. Schwartz/Getty Images for ABA)

He was arrested previously during a traffic stop involving a vehicle operated by a female acquaintance. Authorities claimed to have discovered drugs in the woman’s purse after inspecting the car. Law enforcement sources informed TMZ that officers found suspected fentanyl and are conducting tests to verify the substance.

Rodriguez denied any wrongdoing and asserted that he did not possess any illegal substances at the time of his arrest. (RELATED: Comedian Ken Flores Dies Suddenly At Age 28)

No additional details were provided regarding who might have supplied Serrato with fentanyl at the time of his passing.