'Storm Chasers' star Joel Taylor died of ecstasy overdose

Joel Taylor (Photo: Discovery Channel)
Joel Taylor (Photo: Discovery Channel)

Toxicology results have confirmed Joel Taylor’s cause of death. The Forensic Sciences Institute of Puerto Rico tells TMZ that the Storm Chasers star overdosed on MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. It also found traces of ketamine in his system.

Taylor died earlier this year after being found unresponsive in his room on a cruise. The Discovery Channel star was enjoying Atlantis Events’ all-gay Caribbean Cruise, which set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Jan. 20. The event was filled with performances, from Olivia Newton-John to electronic dance music duo Galantis. Taylor’s family positively identified his body in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a day after he passed away.

It was suspected at the time that drugs played a role in Taylor’s death; a source told TMZ he was consuming controlled substances. Initially, it was believed to be GHB, a downer sometimes referred to as a “date rape drug.” A passenger told the outlet that Taylor was unconscious and had to be carried off the dance floor and back to his room by two people on the night of Jan. 23.

“I wish I could have just one more chase,” his friend and former Storm Chasers co-star Reed Timmer wrote on Facebook after Taylor’s passing. “He was such a great friend to so many. He will leave behind such a huge void. … His legacy will certainly chase on forever.”

Taylor’s family has yet to comment on the release of the toxicology report.

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