Gerber’s family released a brief statement confirming his death, noting that an autopsy has not yet been completed. The model had been battling opioid addiction for more than a decade and had publicly spoken about a near‑fatal fentanyl overdose in 2024 that left him in a coma.
In March, Gerber shared footage from a wellness clinic in Cancun, Mexico, describing a “pre‑ibogaine flood dose” ritual. He wrote that he was terrified but felt compelled to face “what he had been running from,” and expressed hope that the experience would be his last need for such treatment.
The ibogaine he referenced is a psychoactive compound derived from the West African shrub Tabernanthe iboga. While not approved as a medication in the United States, it has been studied for its potential to reduce opioid dependence and, according to a 2025 Stanford study cited by an associate professor of psychiatry, to alleviate symptoms of traumatic brain injury in military veterans.
Family members praised Gerber’s courage. His sister Kaia called him a “warrior” in a Vogue interview, while his mother Cindy Crawford said, “Walked through the fire to find yourself. So proud!” Their father, Rande Gerber, added, “I’m so proud of you and your courage. Facing what’s hard takes real strength.”
Gerber’s earlier disclosures included dependence on prescription medications such as antidepressants and Xanax, which he said he used to manage panic attacks. He also criticized the lack of a structured recovery plan after seeing more than 15 psychiatrists, according to a now‑deleted video reported by CNN.
The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. With the autopsy pending, officials have not released a cause of death, and the rehabilitation facility’s name has not been disclosed.