The sudden death of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan was a surprise to everyone. However, the situation has taken a turn as investigators and family members now look into whether a surgical mistake played a role in his passing.
On Thursday, the Clearwater Police Department released a statement confirming their probe into Hogan’s death remains active. Detectives are reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, and working closely with Hogan’s family.
“The unique nature of this case has required us to interview multiple witnesses and seek medical records from a variety of providers, and our detectives continue to do that. All of this takes time,” police said.
Officials added that Hogan’s children, Brooke and Nick, have been in communication with investigators and expressed appreciation for the department’s efforts.
Hogan’s widow, Sky, told TMZ Sports that the wrestling legend’s phrenic nerve was “compromised” during a recent surgery. She confirmed that an autopsy has already been completed, though she declined to release the findings. She also noted that Hogan’s body has not yet been cremated.
The phrenic nerve plays a vital role in controlling the diaphragm and regulating breathing. Damage to it can result in respiratory failure — a detail that has raised alarms among both family members and medical professionals.
According to law enforcement sources, the Clearwater PD’s 911 report — currently under “lockdown” — indicates an occupational therapist was present at Hogan’s Florida home when he suddenly stopped breathing. That therapist allegedly told responding officers Hogan had been the victim of medical malpractice, claiming a surgeon had “severed” his phrenic nerve during one of his recent procedures.
Sources say Hogan did not experience the typical signs of cardiac arrest before his death. Instead, he simply stopped breathing — a scenario consistent with phrenic nerve damage. Hogan’s wife reportedly initiated the 911 call when his breathing halted.
Police body cam footage is said to have captured conversations between officers and the therapist regarding the suspected surgical error.
Hogan’s daughter, Brooke, has publicly called for a full autopsy to determine the true cause of death. Questions remain as to whether his body has since been cremated, with conflicting reports emerging.
The WWE legend passed away on July 24 at the age of 70.
