Presley Gerber, the 27-year-old son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, died on Sunday at a rehabilitation facility in California. Authorities are investigating the death as a suspected overdose.
Gerber, who had been battling drug dependency, panic attacks and mental health difficulties, was found deceased at the upmarket rehab centre where he had been residing. Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to the scene on Sunday morning.
Police statement on the death
A spokesperson for Santa Monica Police Department confirmed that emergency services were called to the facility. The statement read: "On September 20, 2026, at approximately 9:35 a.m., Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to a report of a possible overdose in the 1000 block of Berkeley Street. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male who was deceased."
The statement continued: "SMPD detectives are investigating the death as a suspected overdose. At this time, there is no indication of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing."
Autopsy and family response
A post-mortem examination was carried out on Monday, though "the cause and manner of death" are yet to be established. With the autopsy now complete, Presley's remains were cleared for release.
A representative acting on behalf of Cindy, her husband Rande Gerber, and their daughter Kaia Gerber confirmed that Presley passed away on Sunday. They said: "The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time."
History of treatment and family support
In March, Presley had shared an Instagram post about undergoing Ibogaine treatment in Mexico. Ibogaine is a psychoactive indole alkaloid extracted from the root bark of the Tabernanthe iboga shrub, used experimentally to treat withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with substances including alcohol, opioids and cocaine.
Cindy commented on the post at the time: "You are a warrior! Walked thru the fire to find yourself! So proud!" His father also wrote: "I'm so proud of you and your courage. Facing what's hard takes real strength and watching you find your way back to yourself is everything. I love you so much."
Presley has long battled with his mental health alongside substance and drug misuse. His sister Kaia recently spoke about her brother's addiction during a press tour for TV series The Shards. She said: "When something like that happens in a family, it kind of levels everyone."
Speaking to Vogue, she added: "I think that's also why I started to self-identify as the easy one and never wanted to ask for help. Because it felt like too much to have two children who were needing."
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