Police Report Details Discovery of Suicide Note After Anne Burrell's Death
A newly released police report has confirmed that a suicide note was found following the death of Food Network celebrity chef Anne Burrell. The report, obtained by People magazine from the New York Police Department, provides additional distressing details about the circumstances surrounding the culinary star's passing.
Medical Examiner's Ruling and Police Findings
The New York City medical examiner's office had previously ruled Burrell's death a suicide in July 2025, citing "acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine." The recent police documentation reveals that investigators discovered a suicide note in the primary bedroom of Burrell's Brooklyn residence. According to the official report, "suicidal" journal entries were also found on the bed where the note was located.
Husband's Discovery and Emergency Response
The police report details that on the morning of June 17, 2025, Stewart Claxton, Burrell's husband, noticed unusual circumstances in their bedroom. "The bed was made in their room which is not normal," the report states. Claxton subsequently discovered his wife unconscious on the bathroom floor, surrounded by what was described as "a bunch of over-the-counter pills."
Claxton immediately attempted to revive Burrell and called emergency services when she remained unresponsive. According to the police documentation, Burrell's husband informed investigators that his wife "never attempted suicide in the past" and "never talked about it." This statement adds to the tragic nature of the events, suggesting the suicide may have been unexpected to those closest to her.
Initial Investigation and Career Context
Initially, the NYPD investigated Burrell's death as a potential drug overdose. An internal document reviewed by The New York Times indicated that the Worst Cooks in America host was "discovered in the shower unconscious and unresponsive, surrounded by approximately (100) assorted pills." This detail contrasts slightly with the police report's description of the bathroom floor discovery but confirms the presence of numerous medications.
Burrell's television career had seen recent changes prior to her death. She most recently appeared on the cooking competition program House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025. Fans had expressed surprise when she did not return as host for the new season of Worst Cooks in America that aired in January 2025. Neither Burrell nor the Food Network provided an official explanation for this change at the time.
In an Instagram post shared shortly after the season began, Burrell responded to fan inquiries about her absence from the show. When one follower asked why she wasn't hosting, Burrell wrote: "Honestly I don't know." This cryptic response has taken on additional significance in light of subsequent events.
Tributes and Legacy
Following Burrell's death, heartfelt tributes poured in from family, friends, and colleagues. Her family released a statement describing her as "a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend" whose "smile lit up every room she entered." The statement continued: "Anne's light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal."
The Food Network also honored Burrell's memory, stating: "Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring." These tributes highlight the significant impact Burrell had on both the culinary world and those who knew her personally.
The release of the police report provides additional context to the tragic events of June 2025, though many questions remain unanswered. The discovery of the suicide note and journal entries offers some insight while underscoring the private struggles that can exist behind public personas. Burrell's death represents a significant loss to the culinary entertainment industry and serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness.
