Findings on former Air Force officer’s death emerge as lawmakers seek further federal review.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A Virginia medical examiner has ruled that the death of a former Air Force intelligence officer who had planned to provide information to Congress about alleged unidentified aerial phenomena programs was accidental, contradicting earlier public statements suggesting possible foul play.
Matthew James Sullivan, 39, died on May 12, 2024, from a combination of substances including alcohol and several prescription medications, according to reporting by the New York Post, which cited the Northern Virginia District Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The ruling determined the manner of death to be accidental rather than suicide.
The toxicology findings identified alprazolam, cyclobenzaprine, and imipramine among the substances involved. Alprazolam is commonly prescribed for anxiety, cyclobenzaprine is used as a muscle relaxant, and imipramine is prescribed for certain psychiatric conditions.
The determination contrasts with comments made earlier by Eric Burlison, who had described Sullivan’s death as a “suspicious” suicide during a television interview. In an April 16 letter to Kash Patel, Burlison requested a federal investigation, citing “implications for national security” and noting that Sullivan had been preparing to testify before Congress.
The FBI has not confirmed a specific investigation into Sullivan’s death but stated in a public statement that it is reviewing possible connections among a series of cases involving missing or deceased scientists, working alongside multiple federal and local agencies.
Sullivan had a military and intelligence background that included service with the Air Force Intelligence Agency, the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, and the National Security Agency, according to a published obituary. He was also awarded a Bronze Star for valor during Operation Enduring Freedom.
Lawmakers have linked Sullivan’s case to a broader congressional inquiry into multiple deaths and disappearances involving individuals connected to classified aerospace and defense programs. James Comer, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, and Burlison have requested briefings from federal agencies, including NASA, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense, according to a press release.
Burlison has also said that a report connected to Sullivan’s case was evaluated by the Intelligence Community Inspector General using statutory language indicating urgency and credibility under whistleblower protection laws. The Inspector General’s office has declined to confirm or deny the existence of any related investigation.
Sullivan had been working with David Grusch, who previously testified before Congress regarding alleged government programs involving unidentified aerial phenomena and later reported receiving threats.
The medical examiner’s ruling provides a formal determination of the cause and manner of death, though congressional inquiries into related matters remain ongoing.
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