Austin Beutner's daughter Emily cause of death revealed

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LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has officially concluded its investigation into the death of Emily Beutner, the 22-year-old daughter of former LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner. 

What we know:

The medical examiner’s report identifies the cause of death as the combined effects of mitragynine (kratom), 7-hydroxymitragynine, quetiapine, and mirtazapine. 

Emily Beutner was found by Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel shortly before midnight on Jan. 6 in a field near Sierra Highway and Technology Drive in Palmdale. Despite being transported to a hospital while in medical distress, she was pronounced dead at approximately 2:10 a.m. on Jan. 7.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Austin Beutner drops out of LA mayoral race following daughter's death

What they're saying:

While the Beutner family has remained private during this period, the impact of the tragedy was felt publicly when Austin Beutner, the former leader of the nation's second-largest school district, withdrew from the Los Angeles mayoral race shortly after his daughter’s passing.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Austin Beutner drops out of LA mayoral race following daughter's death

Austin Beutner speaks during a press conference on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 in Pacific Palisades, CA. (Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

What you can do:

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org in the U.S. and Canada, or call 111 in the UK. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.

The Source: This report is based on official records and public statements released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office following the certification of the autopsy results. Additional information was provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and local law enforcement authorities involved in the initial emergency response.

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