The recent inquest into the death of celebrated drag performer Heklina, whose real name was Stefan Grygelko, has revealed significant details surrounding her untimely passing. The 55-year-old artist was found dead in her London flat on April 3, 2023, by her friend and fellow drag performer Peaches Christ, as both were in the city for performances of the musical parody “Mommie Queerest,” inspired by the iconic film “Mommie Dearest.”
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On September 15, the London Metropolitan Police disclosed the cause of Heklina’s death during an inquest, identifying it as acute mixed drug toxicity. This determined state resulted from a combination of substances including cocaine, MDMA, methamphetamines, GHB, and ketamine, all of which authorities believe were consumed willingly over a 48-hour period prior to her death. The findings prompt a deeper examination of the circumstances surrounding the events that led to this tragedy.
Heklina was a prominent figure in the San Francisco drag scene for more than twenty years. She gained recognition for her performances in local theatre, gained a cult following through various drag horror spoofs, and was a staple performer at Oasis, a well-known queer nightclub. Her influence and artistry left a lasting mark on the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
The inquest into her death concluded nearly a four-year investigation marred by controversies surrounding the handling of the case by the Metropolitan Police. Allegations of homophobia within the force have been a persistent issue, particularly given the responses received by those close to Heklina throughout the inquiry. Peaches Christ, in an interview, expressed frustration at being “completely ignored” when seeking updates on the progress of the investigation after her return to the United States.
In late 2025, the situation escalated when a group of protesters gathered outside Scotland Yard, the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, to draw attention to the slow progress of the investigation. Concerns intensified with the delayed release of crucial CCTV footage, which showed three men leaving Heklina’s flat just hours before she was discovered dead—footage that was made public nearly two years after her passing.
In a public acknowledgment, the Metropolitan Police recognised the dissatisfaction of Heklina’s loved ones with the investigation’s pace. A spokesperson admitted that the handling of the case did not meet the required standards and extended apologies for the impact their “poor communication” had on Heklina’s family and friends during an already challenging period.
Following the inquest, Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah commented on the internal review that identified shortcomings in the investigation. While she asserted that these failings did not influence the outcome of Heklina’s death, she acknowledged that the standards expected of the police had not been met and confirmed that steps would be taken to rectify these issues.
Peaches Christ expressed a sense of relief at the findings but also shared her deep ambivalence regarding the ruling. She mentioned that due to the investigation’s shortcomings, she would be left pondering whether the complete truth of what transpired in that flat may ever be fully uncovered. “My hope now is that, by speaking out and demanding accountability, we have helped move the dial—if only slightly—so that the police improve how they investigate cases involving queer victims,” she remarked, fervently wishing that no other grieving community has to endure such a struggle for acknowledgment.
The revelations from the inquest and the subsequent reactions highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and raise essential questions about how such investigations are approached. As the Metropolitan Police seek to address their procedural failings, many are left to wonder what changes might come and how similar cases will be handled in the future. The impact of Heklina’s legacy continues to resonate, and the call for accountability remains stronger than ever, urging authorities to ensure justice is served equitably for all.