Drena De Niro Reveals Son’s Fentanyl-Laced Pill Tragedy and Quest for Justice

Robert De Niro’s daughter, Drena De Niro, is sharing new details about her son’s tragic death. Leandro De Niro Rodriguez died in 2023 after taking pills laced with fentanyl. He was only 19 years old.

Drena told Page Six that her son was seeking help for his struggles. She believes he was exposed to hard drugs without his knowledge. This revelation adds a heartbreaking layer to the family’s public loss.

Multiple Substances Found in System Following Arrests

The official cause of death was a lethal mix of drugs. According to the New York City Chief Medical Examiner, fentanyl was present. The combination also included bromazolam, alprazolam, ketamine, and cocaine.

Five people were later arrested in connection with the case. Drena described the arrests as a “bittersweet” development. She hopes it leads to justice but feels no happiness from it.

Launching a Foundation to Combat a National Crisis

The family’s grief has been channeled into action. Drena and Robert De Niro started the Leandro De Niro Rodriguez Foundation. Its mission is to support other families affected by the fentanyl crisis.

The foundation aims to expand access to care and resources. Drena wants to prevent other parents from experiencing her pain. She is determined to protect her son’s legacy from being reduced to a headline.

The fight against fentanyl-laced drugs continues to claim young lives. Drena De Niro’s heartbreaking story underscores the urgent need for awareness and accountability. Her foundation now represents a beacon of hope in a growing national crisis.

Thought you’d like to know-

How did Leandro De Niro Rodriguez die?

He died from an accidental overdose. The medical examiner found a deadly combination of fentanyl, bromazolam, ketamine, and cocaine in his system.

Were there any arrests made?

Yes, five individuals were arrested in connection with his death. The arrests were related to the sale of the lethal drugs.

What is the Leandro De Niro Rodriguez Foundation?

It is a non-profit organization launched by his family. The foundation supports families impacted by fentanyl and works to expand access to care.

What was Drena De Niro’s reaction to the arrests?

She described the news as “bittersweet.” She expressed hope for justice but clarified it did not bring her personal happiness.

Did Leandro know the pills were laced with fentanyl?

Drena believes he did not know. She stated he was seeking help and was likely unaware he had been exposed to such dangerous substances.