Drena De Niro, the daughter of renowned actor Robert De Niro, has revealed that her 19-year-old son, Leandro Anthony De Niro-Rodriguez, tragically passed away after consuming fentanyl-laced pills. The heartbreaking revelation came as Drena responded to an inquiry on her Instagram post. She expressed her anger towards those who knowingly sold her son such dangerous drugs and urged an end to this hazardous practice.
Further details regarding the cause of death were not disclosed, and inquiries were made to New York’s Office of Chief Medical Examiner for additional information. Representatives for Robert De Niro have not yet responded to requests for comment on his daughter’s posts.
Robert De Niro did release a statement through NBC News, expressing his deep distress over the loss of his beloved grandson, Leo. He also expressed gratitude for the condolences received and requested privacy for his family as they grieve this devastating loss.
“I’m deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo. We’re greatly appreciative of the condolences from everyone. We ask that we please be given privacy to grieve our loss of Leo.”
On Sunday, July 2, at around 2:23 p.m. local time, the New York Police Department received a 911 call. Responding to the location, officers discovered an unconscious and unresponsive male. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) pronounced him deceased at the scene. The cause of death is yet to be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, according to a spokesperson from the New York Police Department.
Drena De Niro shared a poignant black-and-white photograph of De Niro-Rodriguez and expressed her overwhelming emotions, mentioning how she struggled to find words amid her tears. She acknowledged the outpouring of love, messages, calls, texts, emails, and support from friends and family during the past 24 hours, conveying her gratitude while acknowledging that she hasn’t been able to respond individually yet.
She lamented the unfairness and pain she feels, expressing her love for her son. Drena reflected on the tragic circumstances surrounding his passing, conveying her belief that he has become a strong angel in God’s army. She vowed to hold him close in her heart and memories until they are reunited again. “My heart is broken forever,” she said.
Carlos Mare, the 19-year-old’s father, shared a touching video on July 5 featuring a young De Niro-Rodriguez, where he can be heard saying, “You can’t spell love without Leo.”