Police Reveal anne burrell Left 'Suicidal Note' Before Death, New Details Emerge
New details have emerged in the death of chef anne burrell, with investigators saying they discovered a “suicidal note” in her Brooklyn home and found more than 100 pills at the scene. The medical examiner later ruled her death an acute intoxication from a mix of medications and substances, and investigators classified the death as a suicide.
Evidence recovered at the scene: note, journals and pills
Police say the chef was found deceased in her Brooklyn residence on June 17, 2025, by her husband, Stuart Claxton. Investigators recovered a handwritten “suicidal note” in the home, as well as journal entries neighbors and family identified as suicidal in tone. Authorities also documented the presence of over 100 pills surrounding her body.
Investigators have not released the specific contents of the note or journal passages, citing sensitivity and privacy concerns. Claxton told investigators that he had not been aware of any prior statements by his wife suggesting she intended to harm herself and said there were no outward signs she would do something like this.
Medical examiner's findings and official ruling
The New York City medical examiner later determined the cause of death was an “acute intoxication” resulting from the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine. In July, investigators formally classified the death as a suicide based on the totality of evidence recovered at the scene and the medical findings.
Officials emphasized the combination of sedating antihistamines and alcohol, along with the stimulant, created a lethal toxicology profile. The examination and subsequent ruling closed the investigative phase that followed the June discovery and provided the medical basis for the determination of intent.
Response from family and what comes next
Family members issued a statement after the chef's death that highlighted her warmth and impact on countless fans and friends, saying her light reached far beyond those who knew her personally. Friends and colleagues have expressed shock, describing her as vibrant and unassuming in public interactions.
Investigators have said they will continue to treat the findings with discretion out of respect for the family’s privacy. There is no indication of foul play and no additional suspects were identified as part of the inquiry.
The news has prompted renewed conversation about mental health and how it can be hidden from those closest to someone. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available: call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available in the United States) to connect with trained counselors who can provide support any time, 24/7.
Authorities continue to encourage anyone with relevant information about the days leading up to June 17, 2025, to come forward so investigators can complete any remaining inquiries. For now, officials say the combination of the note, journal entries, pill counts and the medical examiner’s toxicology conclusion form the basis for the suicide determination.
