dicksnbabies – You’re right, it doesn’t really matter either way how he died, however knowing the COD is a natural curiosity that many people have. I work with death on a daily basis in my occupation, so as a result, I happen to have a higher interest and knowledge. I’m offering what I know as a means to answer the questions people may have. I also understand that in many cases, knowing the COD provides some closure to an otherwise senseless death.

It’s no secret that Paul battled his demons and unfortunately, even if drugs weren’t the direct COD, they are likely going to be a contributing factor. It may not kill you today, but the shit you put into your body will eventually catch up with you.

For instance, long term heroin use (which Paul was known to use) results in a number of conditions; 1) Infection of the heart lining and valves, normally due to lack of sterile technique. 2) Liver disease – approximately 70-80% of new hepatitis C infections in the U.S. each year are the result of injection drug use, and even sharing snorting straws has been linked to hepatitis transmission. 3) Kidney disease. 4) Pulmonary complications, which are often infection related. 5) Skin infections and abscesses, especially among chronic injectors who suffer scarred or collapsed veins.

Regardless, I think everyone can agree that the entire situation is extremely tragic. He leaves behind family, friends, bandmates and most of all his wife and unborn child.