Presley Gerber's death raises questions about ibogaine treatment

Authorities are investigating the death of Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, who died at a Malibu rehab facility on September 20, 2026. The 27-year-old model's death is suspected to be an overdose, according to the Santa Monica Police Department, with no signs of foul play reported.

What the investigation reveals

Gerber was found in cardiac arrest at a rehab facility in Malibu, where he was pronounced dead shortly after first responders arrived. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed his death at 9:45 a.m. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on the circumstances leading to his apparent overdose.

Rehab facility under scrutiny

Gerber's death at Resolutions Living, a sober living home in Los Angeles, raises questions about the liability of treatment centers in overdose cases. According to John J. Perlstein, a wrongful death attorney, a facility could be held responsible if it fails to provide promised services or adequate care, such as sufficient monitoring of patients.

Controversial ibogaine treatment

In one of his last social media posts, Gerber mentioned undergoing ibogaine treatment for addiction. Ibogaine, a Schedule I controlled substance, is not legally approved in the U.S. due to its potential for misuse and serious side effects, including seizures and heart issues. Despite these risks, ibogaine has been used to treat substance use disorders.

Regulatory context

Ibogaine's legal status in the U.S. remains complex. In April, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to expedite research into psychedelic treatments, including ibogaine. This led to the FDA's first U.S.-based trials of an ibogaine-derived drug and legislative support for ibogaine research in states like Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

Why it matters

Gerber's death underscores the ongoing debate over the safety and efficacy of ibogaine treatment for addiction. As research into psychedelic therapies expands, the case highlights the need for careful consideration of treatment protocols and facility responsibilities.

The investigation into Gerber's death continues, with implications for both the regulation of ibogaine and the accountability of rehab facilities.