Singapore: A state coroner in Singapore has ruled that the death of Indian singer Zubeen Garg was the result of an accidental drowning, upholding findings by the Singapore Police Coast Guard that there was no foul play involved.
State Coroner Adam Nakhoda said the investigation conducted by authorities was “comprehensive and thorough” and found no evidence that the singer had been forced, coerced, or pushed into the water.
The incident occurred near Lazarus Island on September 19, 2025, when the 52-year-old singer drowned during a yacht outing, a day before he was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival.
According to court findings, Garg had consumed alcohol prior to the incident, which likely impaired his judgment. He had initially worn a life jacket during his first swim but later removed it and refused to wear one again despite repeated warnings from the yacht captain and others on board.
Witnesses reported that Garg went for a second swim without safety gear and appeared to struggle while returning to the yacht. He was rescued from the water but later died at a hospital. An autopsy confirmed drowning as the cause of death.
Toxicology reports presented in court revealed a high blood alcohol concentration, indicating severe intoxication that may have affected his coordination and reflexes. The court also noted his medical history, including hypertension and epilepsy, though it found no conclusive evidence linking a medical episode to the drowning.
The coroner further stated there was no indication of any deliberate wrongdoing by those present, adding that the singer had voluntarily participated in the yacht trip and water activities.
No charges have been filed in connection with the case, and authorities reiterated that there was “nothing untoward” about the circumstances leading to the incident.
