‘American Idol’ Tragedy: Doug Kiker’s Cause of Death Revealed—Fans Stunned as Shocking Details Emerge About Beloved Contestant’s Final Days.

Doug Kiker, better known as “The Singing Garbage Man” on Season 18 of American Idol, died March 10 at the age of 32.

Five years before his death, Doug Kiker became an audience favorite on American Idol with his audition performance of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road.” The singer had never performed for an audience before, only singing while working on the back of a garbage truck.

Doug Kiker in his audition for Season 18 of “American Idol” with judge Luke Bryan playing piano. (Photo Credit: American Idol / YouTube)
His talent brought Katy Perry to tears and earned praise of Lionel Richie who said:

“For a man who has no idea what his voice can do, for a man who has no idea what key he’s singing in, for a man who has no idea who the heck he can be, he’s here to do one thing: He’s trying to show his daughter that he’s somebody.”

Kiker was eliminated during Hollywood Week after singing Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” but invited back to virtually perform “Bless the Broken Road” with Rascal Flatts.

News of Doug’s death rattled the American Idol fanbase. His death was announced on social media by family members. Doug’s brother, William, wrote, “Dear brother I just want you to know that know matter where you are you will always be my baby brother … I just wish I had more time with you.”

Doug’s sister, Angela Evans, confirmed the news, saying: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker he was sooo loved and will be missed by so many!”

Doug Kiker’s Cause of Death

Initial reports indicated that Kiker died of an overdose. Five weeks after his death, that news was confirmed.

In a report issued by City and County of Denver Medical Examiner’s Office and obtained by TMZ, Kiker’s official cause of death was listed as an accidental overdose. He died as a result of “combined toxic effects of fentanyl, methadone, and amphetamines, with recent cocaine use.”

TMZ reported shortly after his death that law enforcement officials reported that a passerby observed Kiker on the street in Denver and called 911 due to being concerned about his appearance. Paramedics responded to the call and transported the singer to the hospital where he died five days later.