The cause of death for singer and actor Darius Campbell Danesh has been revealed.
Last month, it was reported that the Scottish singer and Pop Idol star had passed away at 41 after his body was discovered in his Minnesota apartment on August 11.
A statement from his family read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darius Campbell Danesh.
"Darius was found unresponsive in bed in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota, on August 11 and was pronounced dead in the afternoon by the local medical examiners' office."
Now, the Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed the singer's cause of death, per The Guardian.
Following an autopsy, the medical examiner listed the star's cause of death as "toxic effects of chloroethane", as well as "suffocation" as a contributing factor.
Campbell Danesh's death was officially ruled an accident.
The Guardian adds that chloroethane - also known as ethyl chloride - is often used as a topical anesthetic for injections and minor surgery. It is also found in other pharmaceuticals, plastics, and dyes.
Following the medical examiner's report, the singer's family has released a statement and provided an explanation for Campbell Danesh's use of chloroethane.
The statement read: "The results of medical examinations have confirmed that Darius’s death was an accident caused by chloroethane, which is used to treat pain and that tragically lead to respiratory arrest.
"Darius was suffering from chronic neck pain following a car accident in 2010.
"We would like to thank everyone for their love and kindness, and ask that the family’s privacy is maintained during this difficult time."
The car accident occurred while the singer was on vacation in Spain. He had been riding as a passenger in a Porche when the vehicle lost control after coming into contact with some oil.
It subsequently collided with a wall while traveling at a speed of 70mph.
The Scottish-born singer and actor first shot to fame on the 2001 UK series of Popstars, astounding viewers with his theatrical rendition of Britney Spears' hit 'Baby One More Time'.
Danesh would gain a greater following after appearing on the first season of Pop Idol back the following year - minus his iconic ponytail.
Although the show was won by eventual winner Will Young, Darius soon found success after the show's conclusion when he released his single 'Colourblind', which shot to the top of the UK charts in July 2002.
His 2002 album Dive In also went Platinum in the UK charts.
After finding great success in India, Darius also performed alongside music legend Alanis Morissette in the country.
Following his success in the music industry, Danesh went on to become a star in the West End, landing roles in musicals such as Chicago and Guys and Dolls.
In recent years, Danesh has continued to wow audiences with his stage roles, performing in shows like From Here to Eternity the Musical and Funny Girl.
Our thoughts continue to go out to Campbell Danesh's family, friends, and fans.
