Officials: Bob Saget’s cause of death was likely accidental head trauma

PEOPLE magazine acquired a copy of the autopsy report from the Orange County Medical Examiner. Their findings indicate the late actor and comedian had hit his head on something that caused enough damage to fracture the back of his head.

"This report shows that the [skull and] brain suffered trauma which led to skull fractures, bruising of the brain and actual bleeding in the space around the brain. This blood can compress the brain and cause death. The coroner determined that this trauma was most likely caused by an accidental fall backward," an Associate Professor of Medicine at NYU Langone Health told the outlet.

Other details include heart-related problems such as cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coronary artery atherosclerosis (vessel damage), and aortic atherosclerosis (plaque build-up).

Separately, the Saget family confirmed to PEOPLE magazine on Wednesday that Bob died in his sleep from head trauma. No drugs or alcohol were involved.

The statement also thanks his fans for being a comfort as the family copes with the loss of their patriarch.

"Now that we have the final conclusions from the authorities' investigation, we felt it only proper that the fans hear those conclusions directly from us. As we continue to mourn together, we ask everyone to remember the love and laughter that Bob brought to this world, and the lessons he taught us all: to be kind to everyone, to let the people you love know you love them, and to face difficult times with hugs and laughter."

The news about Bob Saget’s cause of death comes after an initial analysis of his body the day after he died. At that time, officials found no evidence of drug use or foul play.

His widow Kelly Rizzo had said her late husband was in good health despite a "non-serious" bout with COVID back in December.

It was early last month that Saget was found dead in his Orlando, Florida hotel room. He had embarked on a comedy tour doing stand-up in the state. His last routine took place in front of a crowd in Jacksonville.

In related news, Saget’s close friend John Mayer revealed he’s composing a song in memory of what the comedian meant to him.