Heath Ledger passed away on January 22, 2008, at the age of 28 due to an accidental overdose caused by a combination of prescription medications. The toxicology report revealed that he died from acute intoxication by the combined effects of oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, temazepam, alprazolam, and doxylamine. These drugs included painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, and sleeping pills, which together caused his brain and brain stem to "fall asleep," stopping his heart and lung function
. He was found unresponsive in his New York City apartment by his housekeeper and massage therapist. Despite attempts to revive him with CPR and emergency medical care, he was pronounced dead at the scene
. His death was ruled accidental, with no evidence of suicide or long-term drug addiction, though he was reportedly struggling with insomnia and self- medicating at the time
. Ledger's personal difficulties, including the end of a relationship and health issues like insomnia and a possible chest infection, contributed to his use of multiple medications
. Notably, at the time of his death, he had a script for a film adaptation of Malcolm Gladwell's book Blink with him, indicating ongoing professional plans despite his struggles
