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Memphis' Brandon Clarke, 29, Dies After Arrest; cause unknown

5/13/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Brandon Clarke Dies

Brandon Clarke, 29, died as announced by the Memphis Grizzlies on May 12, 2026, with no cause disclosed.
He was arrested in Arkansas on April 1, 2026, on four charges including controlled-substance possession and fleeing while speeding.
A torn Achilles in March 2023 and subsequent calf and knee problems limited him to two games in the 2025-26 season.

Summary

Clarke Overdose

LAPD confirmed Clarke was found dead in a San Fernando Valley home, prompting an overdose investigation.
Deputies said Clarke led a high-speed chase on April 1, reaching over 100 mph, while officers seized 230 g of kratom, a Schedule 1 substance in Arkansas.
An autopsy was scheduled to determine the cause of death.
Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a 911 call at 5 p.m. on May 11, pronouncing Clarke dead at the scene.

History

Historical Context

After a 1983 anti-drug pact between the NBA and the NBPA responded to a cocaine surge, the league launched a 1995 nationwide testing program with the DEA that screened roughly 1,000 players and staff each season. That framework underpins the response to Memphis forward Brandon Clarke’s April 2026 kratom seizure and death, prompting the Grizzlies and local police to cooperate.

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Brandon Clarke Dies

Brandon Clarke, 29, died as announced by the Memphis Grizzlies on May 12, 2026, with no cause disclosed.
He was arrested in Arkansas on April 1, 2026, on four charges including controlled-substance possession and fleeing while speeding.
A torn Achilles in March 2023 and subsequent calf and knee problems limited him to two games in the 2025-26 season.

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