The New York Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has released findings revealing that Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, the grandson of renowned actor Robert De Niro, died as a result of an accidental drug overdose. The cause of death was attributed to the combined toxic effects of various substances, including fentanyl, bromazolam, alprazolam, 7-aminoclonazepam, ketamine, and cocaine. The lifeless body of 19-year-old Rodriguez was discovered in his Manhattan apartment on July 2.
Following the incident, 20-year-old Sofia Haley Marks was taken into custody and faced charges related to allegedly selling drugs to Rodriguez prior to his untimely death. Marks has made an appearance in a Manhattan federal court, where she currently remains in custody.
Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, who had adopted his grandmother Diahnne Abbott’s surname, was the offspring of Robert De Niro’s eldest daughter, Drena. The mother-son duo had collaborated on various projects within the entertainment industry and shared a strong bond. The devastating loss of Rodriguez has left both Robert De Niro and Drena sorrowful and heartbroken, prompting them to express their grief through social media posts. The family is now requesting privacy during this difficult period.
Acknowledging his profound sorrow over the death of his cherished grandson, the Academy Award-winning actor has issued a statement, beseeching the public to respect their need for privacy while they mourn their loss. Drena, too, has taken to social media to pay homage to her son’s memory, emphasizing his kindness, acceptance, and love.