Aaron Carter’s cause of death: The Details Behind His Sudden Passing

Aaron Carter was a pop sensation who captivated an entire generation with hits like “That’s How I Beat Shaq” and “Aaron’s Party (Come and Get It).” His unexpected death on November 5, 2022, shocked fans worldwide.

The singer was found unresponsive in the bathtub of his California home. In April 2023, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner ruled his death accidental. According to the report, Carter had taken alprazolam (the generic form of Xanax) and inhaled difluoroethane, a substance found in compressed air. The combination left him incapacitated, leading to drowning.

A Life in the Spotlight

Aaron Carter, the younger brother of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, built his own career in the pop music scene. He toured with major artists like Britney Spears and even transitioned to rap in his later years. However, his success was overshadowed by struggles with addiction and mental health, issues he openly discussed.

“I was a very happy baby growing up,” he told PEOPLE in 2018. “Now, I just want to have fun, be healthy—mind, body, soul, emotions … all of those things, and really be responsible for my own actions.”

His Final Days and Passing

In October 2022, just a month before his passing, Carter listed his Lancaster, California, home for sale. He expressed hope for a fresh start, tweeting:

“Selling my 2nd home… Ready for a new chapter in my 3rd home which I plan on staying in to make a beautiful life for my family. This year has been super tough but I’ve learned so much.”

Unfortunately, his struggles continued. His body was discovered by his housekeeper before 11 a.m. on November 5, 2022. Authorities confirmed his identity later that day.

Family and Friends React

Carter’s death left his loved ones heartbroken. His older brother, Nick Carter, took to Instagram, writing:

“My heart has been broken today. Even though my brother and I have had a complicated relationship, my love for him has never ever faded. Sometimes we want to blame someone or something for a loss. But the truth is that addiction and mental illness is the real villain here.”

Aaron’s twin sister, Angel Carter, also shared an emotional tribute:

“To my twin… I loved you beyond measure. You will be missed dearly. My funny, sweet Aaron, I have so many memories of you … I know you’re at peace now. I will carry you with me until the day I die and get to see you again.”

His fiancée, Melanie Martin, and their one-year-old son, Prince, were left devastated. Martin told PEOPLE, “I knew he was struggling, and I tried everything to help him. This is the worst day of my life, but I have to be strong for our son.”

Unanswered Questions

Though the medical report ruled Carter’s death an accident, some family members questioned the findings. Melanie Martin expressed doubt about the drowning claim, noting that Aaron was found wearing a T-shirt and necklace in the bathtub. His mother, Jane Schneck, also called for a deeper investigation, sharing disturbing photos from the scene and alleging that her son had received death threats.

Honoring His Legacy

Despite his struggles, Aaron Carter’s music and impact live on. In early 2024, his close friend, Bryant Cassidy, and former manager Morgan Matthews released Carter’s posthumous single, “Grateful.” Additionally, Angel Carter announced plans to release an album of never-before-heard songs that Aaron recorded over a decade ago.

A four-part documentary, Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter, is set to premiere on May 27, 2024, on Max. It will explore Aaron’s struggles, his family conflicts, and the allegations made against his brother, Nick Carter.

Aaron Carter’s life was filled with highs and lows, but his legacy as a pop icon and his battle with personal demons will never be forgotten.