New details emerge in probe of former WWE and AEW star PAC's death
PAC, the former WWE and AEW star, was found unresponsive in a car outside a CAVA in Des Plaines, Illinois, and was pronounced dead a day after his AEW All Out 2026 National Championship match against Andrade. New information has since surfaced in the investigation into his death.
The Bastard had wrestled Andrade for the National Championship at AEW All Out 2026 the night before he was found. A 911 call was placed after he was discovered unresponsive, and his death shocked fans and family, particularly after he appeared in strong physical condition the previous evening. Many superstars from AEW, WWE and other promotions paid tribute following his passing.
In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that a source familiar with the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office provided additional details to investigators. Meltzer wrote that officials ordered further studies after an autopsy was conducted, and that such orders usually meant that the death was not due to common natural causes like a heart attack, stroke, or aneurysm. The report indicates the examination has moved beyond an initial autopsy.
A recording of the 911 call has also been reported. According to that recording, the caller said a man was passed out in a car next to theirs and initially mistook PAC for a woman; the caller said they knocked on the window for five minutes with no response and observed his eyes were wide open. Paramedics arrived after the call and began their on-scene assessment.
First responders noted a saliva stain on his shirt when they reached the vehicle. Investigators also found two suitcases, a backup with medication, and GPS coordinates set to a nearby airport on PAC’s phone during their examination of the scene and belongings.
PAC’s death drew immediate reaction across the wrestling community, with tributes coming from performers in multiple promotions and expressions of shock from fans and family. He is also referenced in reports by his earlier ring name, Neville, in addition to his AEW persona.
The exact cause of death has not been released, and authorities have indicated further studies are underway; more details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.