Professional golfer’s death ruled suicide

The May 9 death of professional golfer Erica Blasberg has been ruled suicide by the Clark County coroner.

While no foul play is suspected in Blasberg's death, an arrest warrant was issued Tuesday for Dr. Thomas Hess on a misdemeanor obstruction of justice charge in connection with removing items from the scene prior to police officers' arrival.

Hess, 43, turned himself in to authorities and was booked into the Henderson Detention Center. He was released 35 minutes later after posting $637 bail.

Blasberg, 25, was found with a plastic bag over her head at her Henderson home at 2620 Hotel de Ville Terrace in the Anthem community on the afternoon of May 9.

The coroner said she died of asphyxia, coupled with toxic levels of prescription medication in her system. Toxicology confirmed the presence of several prescription drugs including headache, cough, pain and anti-anxiety medications.

"While asphyxia was the primary cause of death, the presence of prescription drugs in Ms. Blasberg's system was a significant factor," Coroner Michael Murphy said. "Our thoughts are with her family as they move through this tragedy."

Blasberg, a native of Corona, Calif., turned pro in 2004 and had her only top-10 finish in 2008. She played one LPGA tournament this year, finishing tied for 44th in the Tres Marias Championship in Morelia, Mexico, which ended May 2.

Blasberg was hindered by a bad back in 2009, resulting in the worst year of her career and limitations on her LPGA playing privileges this season.

She compiled $326,872 in LPGA earnings and had her best year in 2008 when she made the cut in 11 of 23 events and had earnings of $113,428.

The drugs in Blasberg's system included butalbital, temazepam, alprazolam, codeine, hydrocodone and tramadol, according to the coroner.

The case was initially complicated when Hess, who reported the death, admitted to altering the scene and would not cooperate with investigators, authorities said.

Hess admitted removing a suicide note, hiding it in his vehicle along with prescription medications taken from the house.

Hess, a family practice doctor, could not be reached for comment Tuesday. He has a disciplinary record with the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners, and Executive Director Douglas Cooper said he could not say if the charge against Hess could cause him to lose his medical license.

"We'll take the allegations seriously," Cooper said. "We'll act appropriately after the results of the criminal investigation are known."

Hess found Blasberg's body and called 911.

During the 911 call, Hess had difficulty controlling his breathing and became agitated when asked whether Blasberg was beyond medical help.

"I'm a doctor," he said, then cursed softly.

Hess told dispatchers he had gotten drinks with Blasberg on May 7, two days before he found her body, and spoke to her by phone May 8. She sounded drunk during their last conversation, Hess said, which prompted him to check on her the next afternoon. She never indicated to him that she was depressed or suicidal, he said.

Before the 911 call ended, the dispatcher instructed Hess to wait outside for police officers to arrive and not touch the crime scene.

"Yes ma'am," he said, before hanging up.

Reporter Mike Blasky contributed to this report.