Wife Called 911, Then Said Husband Was Having a ‘Bad Trip.’ They Refused Medical Attention and Were Both Found Dead Hours Later

A recent coroner’s report has provided new insights into the tragic deaths of Jay and Kristen Ruskey, a married couple who were well-known for their contributions to farming and their business, Frinj Coffee. The couple, both parents to three children, were discovered deceased at their home in California on 8 February, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths have now come under closer scrutiny.

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office had previously classified the couple’s deaths as accidental, attributing the cause to toxic effects from carbon monoxide and ethanol. Initial investigations revealed that a carbon monoxide and smoke detector had been disconnected in their bedroom, raising concerns about their safety prior to the incident.

According to the coroner’s report, the day before their deaths, the Ruskeys were seen at a birthday party held at a friend’s residence in Cambria, with approximately 50 to 60 other guests in attendance. Witnesses reported that the couple was last seen around 2 a.m. on the morning of 8 February before they returned to their room.

Several hours later, at approximately 4:30 a.m., Kristen made a frantic call to emergency services, reporting that Jay may be experiencing a seizure. However, upon the arrival of first responders, she described Jay’s condition as a “bad trip,” attributing it to having consumed a chocolate bar containing psychedelic mushrooms. The emergency medical team suggested to Kristen that Jay should be taken to hospital for further evaluation, but he refused medical assistance, and the couple returned to bed.

In the morning, around 9:30 a.m., guests found Kristen unresponsive in the laundry room, which is situated close to the master bedroom where the couple had been staying. Jay was subsequently found in the bedroom, with no signs of life. Despite efforts from guests who began CPR, both were later pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services.

Five days after the incident, the property owner alerted the authorities to potential carbon monoxide issues within the residence. Subsequent examinations confirmed that the detector was non-functional. During the autopsy, officials reported no indications of physical trauma, but toxicology tests indicated dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide in their systems. Additionally, Kristen was found to have a blood alcohol content of 0.04, while no illicit drugs were discovered in the room or vehicle, and no witnesses reported seeing Jay consume any drugs.

The coroner’s report reaffirmed that carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause of death for both individuals.

The tragic loss has resonated deeply with the community, particularly as the Ruskeys are survived by their three teenage children. A GoFundMe campaign established in their honour has raised over £192,000 as of mid-April, highlighting the widespread support for the family during this devastating time.

In an emotional statement, the Ruskey family expressed their heartbreak over the loss of Jay and Kristen, describing them as the “pillars of our family” who were dedicated not only to each other but also to their children. The family emphasised their commitment to helping others and the profound impact their absence will have.

As investigations continue into the circumstances of their deaths, the case has raised crucial discussions about the importance of functional safety equipment in homes, particularly concerning carbon monoxide detection, and has sparked a conversation about mental health and substance use within the community. The Ruskeys’ legacy, particularly their affection for their family, will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of their children’s lives as they navigate this heartbreaking chapter.