The death of Drew Barrymore‘s half-sister, Jessica Barrymore, has been ruled an accidental drug overdose.
The 47-year-old was found dead in her car on a street in National City, California, near San Diego, on July 29, allegedly with dozens of white pills scattered on the passenger seat.
According to the San Diego Coroner’s Office, Jessica died of acute intoxication, and had alcohol, methamphetamine, methadone, tramadol and nordiazepam in her system at the time of death.
Jessica is the daughter of John Barrymore and Nina Wayne.
“Although I only met her briefly, I wish her and her loved ones as much peace as possible, and I’m so incredibly sorry for their loss,” Drew said in a statement to E! News after Jessica’s death.
UPDATE: Drew Barrymore's half-sis Jessica dead of possible 'drug misadventure' – brother. http://t.co/BDLye5ljOU pic.twitter.com/PvpUEzSxPV
— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) July 31, 2014
According to local ABC affiliate 10News, police were called to the scene by Jessica’s neighbor, Marta Lopez, who told police she couldn’t get to work because Jessica’s Toyota Camry was blocking her driveway.
Another neighbor, Oscar Sandoval, told 10News Jessica’s car hadn’t moved since “around midnight” the evening before, explaining, “I thought she was sleeping or waiting for someone.”
Drew Barrymore's half-sister 'dead from suspected overdose' http://t.co/GEuzdNH3QH pic.twitter.com/2dlY7fo2mB
— Daily Star (@Daily_Star) July 30, 2014
Jessica apparently worked at a Petco animal supply store in the area.
“Jessica was always a helpful person,” her friend and co-worker Dawn Scott told 10News. “If we had any problems she would help us work things out. She would always put people first… She was one awesome, helpful person and she’s someone we’re all going to miss.”
Half-sister to actress Drew Barrymore found dead
http://t.co/86fECiKP7x pic.twitter.com/mTcn5ZnopQ
— NBC Chicago (@nbcchicago) July 30, 2014
“Jessica always had a positive attitude at work, great with customers, us and animals,” said Dawn Vaughn, a former Petco co-worker. “Awesome sense of humor and always had a smile for you, very generous in heart and spirit. This world lost a wonderful human being for sure.”