The tragic death of Emily Beutner, the daughter of former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Austin Beutner, has been officially ruled a suicide more than two months after it was initially investigated as a homicide. Emily, 26, passed away on January 6, 2026, and her cause of death was revealed by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner (DME) on March 20.
The Discovery and Investigation
Emily Beutner was found early on the morning of January 6 on the side of a highway in Palmdale, California, appearing to be “suffering a medical emergency.” Emergency responders treated her at the scene and transported her to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead just after 2 a.m. local time.
Her death was initially treated as a homicide, with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) homicide investigators taking over the case. However, the sheriff’s department clarified that this approach was standard procedure for any young person found dead under similar circumstances. Lt. Michael Modica noted that the homicide investigation should not be interpreted as an indication of the cause of death.
Medical Examiner’s Findings
After an extensive investigation, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office ruled Emily’s death a suicide. The cause of death was determined to be the effects of mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, quetiapine, and mirtazapine.
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are common components of kratom, an opioid-like substance, while quetiapine is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, and mirtazapine is typically prescribed for depression.
The medical examiner’s statement confirmed that Emily’s death was certified on March 20, following a thorough examination and investigation into the substances found in her system. The report noted that the combination of these substances contributed to her tragic passing.
Austin Beutner’s Response
In the wake of his daughter’s death, Austin Beutner, who had been campaigning for mayor of Los Angeles at the time, shared a heartfelt statement expressing the family’s immense grief. “My family has experienced the unimaginable loss of our beloved daughter,” Austin said on January 30. “We ask for privacy and your prayers at this time.”
Just days later, Austin made the difficult decision to withdraw from the mayoral race, citing his family’s need for him during this heartbreaking time. “A successful campaign, and more importantly the job of Mayor, requires someone who is committed 24/7 to the job. Family has always come first for me. That is where I need to be at this time,” he said in his statement.
Emily’s Life and Legacy
Emily Beutner was a beloved daughter and student at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), where she was pursuing a degree in studio arts. She was described as a “magical person, the light of our lives,” by her father in his statement.
The university paid tribute to Emily in the wake of her death, with President Thomas Poon announcing that a plaque would be placed in her honor at the student memorial. “Please join me in extending our deepest condolences to Emily’s family and loved ones,” Poon said, expressing the collective grief of the LMU community.
A Family’s Loss
Emily was one of four adult children Austin shares with his wife, Virginia. Her death has left a profound impact on both her immediate family and the wider community, with many remembering her for her bright spirit and artistic passion.
As the Beutner family continues to mourn the loss of Emily, the public remains sympathetic, with many offering thoughts and prayers for their healing during this incredibly difficult time.
