Cause of Death Revealed for L.A. Mayoral Candidate's Daughter, 22, After He Ended Campaign Over 'Unimaginable Loss'

Emily Beutner's cause of death was ruled a suicide, more than two months after she died on January 6.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 6:07pm

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The cause and manner of death for Emily Beutner, the 22-year-old daughter of former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Austin Beutner, was revealed on March 20. The County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner determined that Emily died by suicide on January 6 from the effects of multiple substances, including the opioid-like drug kratom. Austin Beutner had previously announced he was ending his mayoral campaign due to the 'unimaginable loss' of his daughter.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Emily Beutner, a college student, has had a profound impact on her family and the Los Angeles community. Her father's decision to withdraw from the mayoral race highlights the personal toll that such a loss can take, even on public figures. This case also sheds light on the growing issue of substance abuse, particularly the use of kratom, which has been linked to an increasing number of overdoses and deaths.

The details

The County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner determined that Emily Beutner died by suicide on January 6 from the effects of multiple substances, including the opioid-like drug kratom, as well as the antidepressant mirtazapine and the antipsychotic quetiapine. Emily was found 'suffering a medical emergency' on the side of a highway in Palmdale, California, in the early hours of January 6 and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

  • Emily Beutner died on January 6, 2026.
  • Her cause and manner of death were revealed on March 20, 2026.
  • On February 5, 2026, her father Austin Beutner announced he was ending his bid for L.A. mayor over the 'unimaginable loss'.

The players

Emily Beutner

The 22-year-old daughter of former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Austin Beutner, who died by suicide on January 6, 2026.

Austin Beutner

The former Los Angeles mayoral candidate and father of Emily Beutner, who withdrew from the race due to the 'unimaginable loss' of his daughter.

County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner

The agency that determined the cause and manner of Emily Beutner's death.

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What they’re saying

“My family has experienced the unimaginable loss of our beloved daughter.”

— Austin Beutner, Former Los Angeles mayoral candidate

“Please join me in extending our deepest condolences to Emily's family and loved ones, and in holding Emily and all who are grieving her loss in our collective thoughts and prayers.”

— Thomas Poon, President, Loyola Marymount University

What’s next

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has not yet responded to requests for further comment on the investigation into Emily Beutner's death.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of substance abuse and mental health challenges, even among young people from privileged backgrounds. It underscores the need for greater awareness, resources, and support for those struggling with these issues, both in the Los Angeles community and nationwide.