Medical Examiner Confirms Cause Of Death Of Friend Who Died In Comedian’s Home

A medical examiner confirmed that comedian Paul Rodriguez’s friend Donald Serrato died of a fentanyl overdose inside the star’s home.

The examiner said Serrato died from the combined effects of fentanyl, PCP and methamphetamine, according to a report published by TMZ on Thursday. The outlet previously reported Serrato had been staying at the comedian’s home for a few days and was found dead in November.  Rodriguez said he left home to work on a Hollywood set and called Serrato at around noon to see if he wanted to grab lunch. He became concerned when his friend failed to respond.

TMZ reported that Rodriguez phoned his girlfriend to go check on Serrato when he was unable to reach him. She attended the residence and found him dead inside.

This is not the first time the popular comedian has been linked to fentanyl.

He is currently battling against the Burbank Police Department over a recent arrest for alleged narcotics 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 previously arrested as part of a traffic stop involving a car driven by a female friend. Police claimed to have found drugs in the woman’s purse after searching the car. Law enforcement sources told TMZ the officers found suspected fentanyl and are currently running tests to confirm the substance.

Rodriguez maintained his innocence and denied being in possession of any illegal substance at the time of his arrest. (RELATED: Comedian Ken Flores Dies Suddenly At Age 28)

No further information was provided surrounding who supplied Serrato with fentanyl at the time of his death.