The dance music community went into mourning last November when rising techno producer i_o died unexpectedly at age 30.
Now, nearly six months later, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has released its autopsy report, which states that the artist born Garrett Lockhart died of natural causes as a function of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder involving chronic inflammation of the thyroid. No other significant issues were found during the examination.
As first reported by EDM.com, Lockhart’s family released a statement Tuesday (May 18) noting that the Examiner’s office contacted them to report that Lockhart suffered from late stage Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an unusual condition for men of his age. Side effects of this condition, the statement continues, can include fatigue, anxiety, depression and cardiac arrhythmia.
“After five months of testing,” the family’s note says, “the conclusion is that, while Garrett did suffer from depression and anxiety, he did not take his own life.” Read the complete statement below.
Lockhart had become known in the dance community via his experimental acid techno sound, which earned him releases on prestige label including Mau5trap and Armada Music. He counted deadmau5 as a major inspiration and received support from his idol via his myriad mau5trap releases and sets at mau5trap events. Lockhart was also supported by scene stars including Armin van Buuren and Eric Prydz.
The most recent i_o release — an update of Ian Van Dahl’s trance classic “Castles in the Sky” — was released via Armada just days before his death.
Below, find the full family statement:
The LA Coroner’s office has contacted the Lockhart Family to report on the cause of Garrett Lockhart (i_o’s) death.
It has been determined that Garrett suffered from late stage Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This is unusual in young males and if undiagnosed can have severe, and sometimes fatal consequences. These include fatigue, anxiety, depression and cardiac arrhythmias.
The coroner determined that Garrett had a sudden and fatal arrhythmia. No toxins were found on extensive and repeated tests.
After 5 months of testing, the conclusion is that, while Garrett did suffer from depression and anxiety, he did not take his own life.
It is our hope that Garrett’s premature death can be used to create and normalize conversations surrounding mental health issues, realizing there may be an underlying disease or conditions requiring medical attention.
Though this report offers us answers on the questions of why, we remain without our friend, our brother and our son. Many of you have mentioned Garrett’s friendship in a time of personal crisis. Honor his memory by being that person to someone else, taking gentle care of yourselves and each other.
We, his family are grateful for everyone that has been involved with the i_o project. It was truly what Garrett had always aspired to be as an artist. We continue to request privacy as we navigate this difficult time. Thank you for your support and prayers, The Lockhart Family
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