Andrew Burkle, the son of billionaire businessman and Pittsburgh Penguins co-owner Ron Burkle, was found dead in his Beverly Hills home on January 6, 2020. He was 27 years old. His death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and the entertainment industry, where he worked as a film producer. But what was the cause of his death? How did he die? And what legacy did he leave behind? Here is what we know so far about Andrew Burkle cause of death and his life.
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The Discovery of His Body
According to People, the Beverly Hills Police Department responded to a call about an “unconscious male” at Andrew’s residence around 7:26 p.m. on January 6. When they arrived, they found him unresponsive and pronounced him dead at the scene. His father, Ron Burkle, reportedly came to the home while the authorities were there. The police did not reveal any details about the circumstances of his death, but said that it appeared that he had been dead since earlier in the day.
The Investigation of His Death
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy on Andrew’s body on January 8, but did not release the cause and manner of his death pending further investigation. According to TMZ, sources close to the family said that they suspected that Andrew died by suicide, but there was no official confirmation or evidence to support that claim. Other sources speculated that his death could have been the result of a drug overdose or accidental overconsumption of sleeping pills, but again, there was no proof or toxicology report to back that up.
The Statement from His Family
Andrew’s family issued a statement to People on January 7, expressing their grief and asking for privacy. They said:
“It is with the deepest regret and sadness that we announce the death of Andrew C. Burkle on January 6, 2020 in Beverly Hills, California. He is deeply loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed. Andrew was known as a young man full of life and entrepreneurial energy. Everyone he met commented on his humble demeanor and hard work. While the family appreciates the outpouring of love and support, they ask that the privacy of the family be respected during this difficult time.”
Andrew is survived by his father, Ron Burkle, his mother, Janet Duitson, his brother, John Burkle, and his sister, Carrie Harr.
The Tribute from His Brother
Andrew’s older brother, John Burkle, posted an emotional tribute to him on Instagram on January 8. He shared a photo of them together at an obstacle course race, which he said Andrew got him interested in five years ago. He wrote:
“It is with the heaviest of hearts and sadness that I say goodbye to my little brother for the last time. Andrew was a bright soul, a kind and giving young man who was taken from us too early. This young man changed my life from the moment he came into this world. He’ll be remembered as a giant among men for all eternity. I love you brother, forever and always.”
The Career of Andrew Burkle
Andrew was an aspiring film producer who co-founded In Good Company Films with his friend Andrew Alter in 2016. According to their website, their mission was “to create content that inspires audiences through compelling storytelling.” Some of their projects included The Juiceman, a documentary about fitness guru Jay Kordich; Airplane Mode, a comedy starring Logan Paul and Chloe Bridges; and El Tonto, a comedy directed by Charlie Day and featuring Kate Beckinsale and Jason Sudeikis.
Andrew also had a passion for philanthropy and supported various causes such as animal welfare, environmental protection, and mental health awareness. He was involved with organizations such as The Giving Back Fund, The Humane Society of the United States, The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, and The Trevor Project.
The Legacy of Andrew Burkle
Andrew Burkle was a young man who had a lot to offer to the world. He was loved by his family and friends who admired his kindness, generosity, humility, and hard work. He was talented and ambitious in his career as a film producer who wanted to make a positive impact through his stories. He was compassionate and caring in his philanthropy who wanted to make a difference for various causes. He was a bright soul who left too soon.
Andrew Burkle cause of death remains unknown at this time, but his life will not be forgotten. He will be remembered as a son, a brother, a friend, a producer, a philanthropist, and a giant among men.
