Comedian Kevin Barnett died unexpectedly while on vacation in Mexico over the weekend. He was 32.
A coroner’s report revealed Barnett died from internal bleeding related to pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas.
The Chief of Forensic Medical Service tells E! News:
“The corresponding autopsy was carried out, which determined that the cause of death was: Non Traumatic Hemorrhage, caused by pancreatitis. At the moment his body is still in facilities of the Forensic Medical Service of Tijuana, waiting to be delivered to his family members who are performing the legal proceedings.”
The pancreas is a large gland that sits below and behind the stomach. It produces hormones and digestive enzymes that neutralizes stomach acid in the duodenum – where digested food enters the first part of the small intestine.
There are two types of pancreatitis: acute and chronic. Acute pancreatitis means sudden onset of inflammation. Chronic pancreatitis means a longterm illness.
The most common cause of pancreatitis is blockage from a gallstone in the common bile duct. The blockage obstructs the flow of bile and pancreatic juices into the duodenum, which backs up into the pancreas, allowing digestive juices to attack the pancreas. The inflammation causes serious damage to the gland, infection and cysts.
In severe cases, there is bleeding into the pancreas, likely caused by trauma from a fall or cancerous tumors. In Barnett’s case, his bleeding was non-traumatic, meaning he did not injure himself prior to his death.
Barnett is best known as a writer for comedy shows such as Rel, The Carmichael Show, Lucas Bros. Moving Co., and Broad City.
He also co-hosted the Round Table of Gentlemen podcast.
In Barnett’s final Instagram post dated Jan. 19, he did not appear to be in any distress. He captioned an image: “In mexico. Bought myself a sweater. Been accused of appropriation several times. In my head I just gave a lady some money so I ain’t cold. Either way. Swag heavy. Mixtape comin. .. @alexjonesbaby”.
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
