One year after the sudden death of legendary actor Ray Liotta in May 2022, the cause of his passing has been disclosed.
Liotta was in the Dominican Republic, working on the film “Dangerous Waters” when his unexpected death occurred.
According to a coroner’s report obtained by TMZ, the factors contributing to Liotta’s death were pulmonary edema, respiratory insufficiency, and acute heart failure, with atherosclerosis as an underlying issue.
Atherosclerosis, a slow-progressing disease, affects about 50% of Americans aged 45 to 84, as stated by the US National Institutes of Health. Often remaining undetected until severe, the condition’s most common symptom is painful muscle cramps in the hips and legs when walking. Atherosclerosis can also lead to a “mini-stroke,” or transient ischemic attack.
Liotta’s abrupt passing shocked both his family and fans. He is survived by his daughter, Karsen, and his fiancée, Jacy Nittolo, who were present with him on the movie set. Nittolo paid tribute to the Goodfellas actor on Instagram, describing his character as beautiful and their connection as “wild in the best way.” In the days preceding Liotta’s death, the couple was seen hand in hand, enjoying each other’s company until the very end.
In February 2023, Liotta was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At the ceremony, Karsen spoke on behalf of her father, characterizing him as a “one-of-a-kind” actor and an exceptional friend, brother, and father. She concluded her speech by highlighting the profound influence her father had on those around him, saying that everyone deserves a “Ray” in their life.
