The death of alt-country singer Justin Townes Earle earlier this week was likely caused by a drug overdose, police say.
According to Rolling Stone, a spokesperson at the Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed that Earle’s death at the age of 38 was the result of a “probable drug overdose”, though an autopsy is still pending. Earle was found dead by authorities last weekend at his Nashville apartment after one of the songwriter’s friends told police they hadn’t heard from him in days. Police say there were no signs of foul play.
The singer-songwriter’s passing was confirmed on Monday in a statement posted on Earle’s official Facebook page. “It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of our son, husband, father and friend Justin,” read the post.
“So many of you have relied on his music and lyrics over the years and we hope that his music will continue to guide you on your journeys. You will be missed dearly Justin.”
Throughout his career, Earle was open about his struggle with substance dependency, which began in his teenage years. He attended rehabilitation clinics multiple times and also experienced lengthy periods of sobriety.
The son of country-folk legend Steve Earle, Justin began his career playing in Nashville bands the Distributors and the Swindlers along with his father’s touring band. He released debut EP Yuma back in 2007 and would go on to release a slew of acclaimed albums. His most recent, The Saint of Lost Causes, arrived in 2019. Earle toured Australia multiple times, including in support of The Saint of Lost Causes last year.
