The cause of death for Obliteration participant Michael Paredes has been released.
Paredes, 38, took part in the TBS series last November – a reload of ABC’s original game show, presented from 2008 to 2014. He died 24 hours after being taken to hospital after his attempt at the show’s difficult obstacle course.
The autopsy report from the office of the coroner in LA County, made available to E! News, said Paredes died of natural causes. He developed a blockage in his coronary arteries, as well as an acute case of pneumonia. No drugs or alcohol were found in his body.
Paredes falls into the water during his Obliteration challenge. He was pulled out of the pool by staff after he could not be taken out. He was placed in a wheelchair, where he underwent cardiopulmonary arrest before being returned and taken to hospital.
Paredes’ fiancé, who also took part in the show, told NBC News that the contestant practiced five days a week, five days a week. Both passed a drug screen, an ECG and a COVID-19 test before filming the show.
Obliteration, presented by John Price, Camille Kostek and Nicole Byer, participants must undergo medical examinations before participating in the show. E! It was reported at the time that the Obliteration production team has numerous medics on hand and a safety producer who monitors the set during filming.