In brief
Supermodel Cindy Crawford announced the death of her son Presley Gerber, age 27, who was found dead in a Californian rehab facility on 20 September. Authorities are treating the case as a suspected overdose, with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner pending further work and no indication of foul play from local police. Presley had begun modelling for Moschino at 16 and had previously spoken publicly about mental health and substance‑use challenges. The family has expressed profound grief and thanked supporters, while siblings have shared personal tributes online. The incident adds to ongoing discussions about mental health, drug safety and celebrity well‑being.
Supermodel Cindy Crawford announced the death of her son, Presley Gerger, at the age of 27. The 27‑year‑old was found dead on 20 September inside a rehab facility in California. Police have indicated the death will be investigated as a suspected overdose, but the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner notes the case remains pending additional investigation, and Santa Monica police say there is no evidence of foul play.
Gerger made his modelling debut with Italian fashion house Moschino at 16, following in his mother’s and sister’s footsteps. He had previously used social media to discuss mental‑health struggles and drug use, posting videos under the banner ‘Mental Health Mondays.’
In a tribute on Instagram, Crawford said her family felt "beyond heartbroken" and noted that “He is a sweet, beautiful soul who loved and is loved, now and forever.” She added, “We are so proud of how he showed up in the world, with kindness and vulnerability.” The post included a black‑and‑white photo of Presley and cited the dates of his birth and death.
Crawford thanked the public for the outpouring of love and support, concluding with a message to her son and sister, Kaia, that reads: “Til we meet again our sweet boy. We love you forever, Mom, Dad and Kaia” and an angel‑wing emoji.
Kaia Gerber posted her own tribute, featuring a video of the siblings dancing as children and a handwritten letter titled "prez". She reflected on their shared childhood and the pain of losing a brother, noting her own struggle to love him when he could not be physically present.
For those affected by mental‑health or substance‑use issues, the article references national support organisations and the BBC Action Line for assistance.
