Autopsy: Former Hawkeye football star Sash died of 'accidental mixed drug toxicity'

Former University of Iowa football player Tyler Sash's death was due in part to two powerful prescription pain relievers, according to the State Medical Examiner's Office.

The Iowa Department of Public Health on Tuesday released more information on the Sept. 8 death of Sash in Oskaloosa. Laboratory test results showed Sash, 27, died of an accidental mixed drug toxicity involving methadone and hydrocodone. Both methadone and hydrocodone are opioids used to treat pain.

The state medical examiner's office also determined a recent shoulder dislocation and a history of chronic shoulder pain were 'significant conditions' in Sash's death. Additional tests have been ordered to determine whether Sash suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative disease found in athletes who have suffered repetitive brain trauma, such as concussions.

Sash suffered two concussions during his NFL career.

The test for CTE will be completed within a year, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

'We all learned about the medical examiner's report (Tuesday) morning, and you know, obviously regarding his death, his passing has been a very, very sad thing and our thoughts continue to his family and all of his friends,' Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz said to begin his weekly news conference. 'Very sorry to learn about the news there.'

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com