Whitney Houston, the iconic singer known for her powerful voice and memorable hits such as “I Will Always Love You,” was found dead in the Beverly Hilton hotel on February 11, 2012. The shocking news of her passing at the age of 48 devastated fans worldwide. An autopsy revealed that Houston died from accidental drowning, with contributing factors including heart disease and cocaine use.
The autopsy report detailed significant findings that highlighted the toll of substance abuse on Houston’s health. She was discovered face down in the bathtub, and the coroner noted numerous abrasions on her body, including an “old healed vertical scar” on her inner lower left forearm. Additional abrasions were found on her forehead, nose, shoulder, forearm, and left hand. Furthermore, there was a “possible old puncture wound” on her inner left elbow, and scars from breast implants were also documented.
Due to the water temperature in the bath, measured at a remarkable 93.5 degrees Celsius, Houston’s skin had suffered severe burns. The report indicated “skin slippage” on her back and legs, alongside “minor skin slippage” on her knees and the lower central area of her back.
Health Complications and Substance Abuse
In a revealing analysis featured in the ITV documentary “Autopsy: The Last Hours of Whitney Houston,” renowned forensic pathologist Prof. Richard Shepherd discussed the severe atherosclerosis found in Houston’s right coronary artery, which was narrowed by 60 percent. He explained that atherosclerosis, characterized as “the furring up of the artery,” is often associated with smoking and is more common in older individuals. Prof. Shepherd noted the alarming severity of this condition in someone as young as Houston, indicating that other factors likely contributed to her health decline.
In a particularly troubling aspect of the autopsy, the coroner reported a “bloody purge” from Houston’s nose and congested eyes. Investigators found traces of a “white powdery substance” on various surfaces in the bathroom, along with a small spoon containing a crystal-like substance and rolled-up paper. Alcohol was also present, with an open champagne bottle in the mini-bar and a beer can on a nearby table.
Houston had previously spoken openly about her struggles with substance abuse. In a candid interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2009, she shared that her addictions intensified after filming “The Bodyguard” in 1992. She described a troubling combination of marijuana and crack cocaine use during that period.
Personal Details and Legacy
The autopsy also revealed personal details that underscored the impact of Houston’s lifestyle on her physical appearance. A brown wig was found tightly attached to her natural hair, which remained full and wavy, while her eyebrows showed signs of irregular hair distribution. Notably, it was discovered that Houston had a “maxillary dental prosthesis,” raising questions about her dental health. Reports from family members suggested that she had lost her teeth during prolonged drug binges, which cost upwards of $6,000 each to replace.
Whitney Houston’s legacy as a remarkable artist is indelibly marked by her extraordinary vocal talent and her struggles with personal demons. The details surrounding her death serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges she faced throughout her life.
