Singer's Drowning Ruled Accidental After Test Reveals Extreme Intoxication

A state coroner has confirmed that the death of Indian singer Zubeen Garg was an accidental drowning, dismissing any claims of foul play. The investigation concluded that Garg, aged 52, tragically drowned near Lazarus Island on September 19, 2025, while on a yacht trip. His death occurred a day before he was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival.

The coroner's findings highlighted Garg's severe intoxication, with a blood alcohol concentration of 333 milligrams per 100 milliliters, vastly exceeding Singapore's legal limit of 80 milligrams per 100 milliliters. This impairment likely affected his judgment, leading him to remove his life jacket during his first swim and refuse to wear one on his second, despite warnings.

Witnesses observed Garg consuming significant amounts of alcohol before the swims. Although Garg had a medical history of hypertension and epilepsy, the evidence was inconclusive to definitively link an epileptic fit to his drowning. The court found no evidence of coercion regarding the yacht trip or his participation in activities.

Following his rescue back to the yacht, Garg was taken to the hospital where he later passed away. An autopsy confirmed drowning as the cause of death. No individuals have been charged in relation to the incident in Singapore.