Autopsy Reveals Producer Tay Keith Died From Accidental Overdose

The Nashville Medical Examiner's Office has determined that Grammy-nominated hip-hop producer Tay Keith died from an accidental drug overdose involving ketamine and mitragynine, a compound found in the plant kratom. The official cause of death, released on September 17, 2026, provides a definitive explanation for the June 18 passing of the influential producer, whose legal name was Brytavious Lakeith Chambers. According to the autopsy report, the 29-year-old's death was due to the toxic effects of combined ketamine and mitragynine. The manner of death was ruled an accident. The report also noted the presence of nicotine and ethanol in his system, along with mild coronary artery disease. Mitragynine is a naturally occurring alkaloid from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a plant commonly known as kratom, which interacts with the brain's opioid receptors. Keith was found deceased in his Nashville apartment on June 18, 2026, during a welfare check conducted by Metro Nashville Police. Officers reported at the time that no foul play was suspected. The autopsy findings clarify the circumstances surrounding the discovery, though they do not specify how Keith consumed the substances.