Presley Gerber's death investigated as suspected overdose

Presley Gerber, the 27-year-old son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, died at a rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles County on Sunday, 20 September 2026, with authorities investigating his death as a suspected overdose. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) confirmed that officers responded to a report of a possible overdose at 9:35 a.m., finding Gerber deceased. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has not yet released an official cause of death, stating that additional testing is required.

Investigation into Presley Gerber's Death as Suspected Overdose Underway

The SMPD statement emphasized that "at this time, there is no indication of foul play," while the medical examiner’s office described the case as "a suspected overdose" and noted that the cause and manner of death remain under review. Gerber’s death occurred at a rehabilitation facility, though the specific name or location of the facility has not been disclosed. The medical examiner’s office declined to detail the nature of the tests being conducted, citing the ongoing investigation.

Gerber’s family has requested privacy during this "very difficult and painful time," according to a statement from Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber. The family’s appeal for discretion comes amid widespread public attention, as Gerber was a prominent figure in the fashion industry and had been open about his personal challenges.

Presley Gerber's Background and Public Struggles with Mental Health

Gerber, born in 1999, was the eldest child of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, and the older brother of model Kaia Gerber. He began his modeling career in his teens, signing with IMG Models at 15 and making his runway debut for Moschino in 2015. Over the years, he worked with major brands including Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, and Calvin Klein. His public persona was marked by both his professional success and his candid discussions about mental health and addiction.

Gerber frequently spoke about his struggles with depression, substance use, and recovery. In a 2023 podcast appearance, he stated, "Having struggled with mental health, depression and some other things that come along with that, I think that whether I help one person or a hundred people get out of that place that I was in at one point in my life, that's all I need to do." He also initiated a social media series called "Mental Health Mondays," where he shared personal insights and encouraged open conversations about mental health challenges.

His openness extended to public discussions about his treatment for opioid addiction. In a December 2025 Instagram post, he mentioned taking medications such as Xanax, Valium, and buprenorphine, noting that "the benzos have been fluctuating up and down depending on what's been going on in my life." Gerber also addressed his decision to distance himself from Hollywood, stating that focusing on his wellbeing was "better to stay away from people around him while he focused on his wellbeing."

Family's Response and Request for Privacy

Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber have remained largely private about their son’s struggles, but Gerber’s sister, Kaia, has spoken publicly about the impact of his mental health challenges on the family. In an interview with American Vogue, she described how his openness about his struggles "levelled everyone" in the family, adding, "There's only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you're ashamed of them."

Gerber’s father, Rande Gerber, co-founded the Casamigos tequila brand with George Clooney, while his mother, Crawford, is a globally recognized supermodel. The family’s public statements have emphasized their grief and desire for privacy, with a representative stating, "The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time."

Tributes from Celebrities and Public Figures

Gerber’s death has prompted widespread tributes from friends and colleagues in the entertainment and fashion industries. Paris Hilton shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, "I’m completely heartbroken... You had such a gentle heart and there was something so special about you that anyone who was lucky enough to know you could feel." Brooklyn Peltz Beckham also expressed his grief, stating, "Presley you were the kindest and we are going to miss you so much x we love you."

Other figures, including Jason Kennedy, highlighted Gerber’s impact through his openness about mental health. Kennedy posted a video of Gerber discussing his struggles, captioning it, "Watching your parents love you the way they did was beautiful, I’m heartbroken for them and your whole family." These tributes underscore the personal and professional connections Gerber maintained throughout his life.

The next steps in the investigation will depend on the results of toxicology testing and the medical examiner’s findings. As the case unfolds, Gerber’s legacy as a public advocate for mental health awareness and his personal journey continue to resonate with those who knew him and followed his life’s work.