Late Rock Singer Chris Cornell’s Family Settles Case With Doctor Who They Alleged Had Overprescribed Drugs

The family of rock musician Chris Cornell has settled their case with the doctor who they said gave the singer more drugs than required which caused the death of the musician.

Vicki, the widow, suspected that Dr. Robert Koblin had “carelessly” given him “dangerous and mind-altering” prescriptions.

The Background

She said the drugs had led to discomfort for Chris. Cornell took his life in a Detroit hotel room in 2017.

An agreement was reached last month, the terms remain confidential.

The Cornell family attorney explained that court papers would remain closed and reorganized to protect the family’s safety.

“Over the past several years, online trolls and other unstable individuals have harassed Plaintiffs, including by threatening the life and safety of [the Cornells’ children],” wrote Melissa Lerner in court documents seen by Rolling Stone.

“Recently a few weeks ago, the plaintiffs received death threats online. In addition, the intense attention of the case has led to further plaintiffs’ privacy invasion incidents.”

Chris Cornell’s Death

Cornell was the lead singer of the rock band Soundgarden, best known for their 1994 song Black Hole Sun.

He also had a successful solo career and recorded the theme song for the 2006 James Bond casino Casino Royale.

The 52-year-old man was found dead in May 2017, just hours after playing a concert with Soundgarden.

Several traces of drug were found in his body – but a coroner’s report said it had no effect on his death.

Case Against Dr. Koblin

The star’s family sued Dr Koblin in November 2018, alleging that he had prescribed more than 940 doses of the anti-anxiety drug Lorazepam to Cornell between September 2015 and May 2017.

They claimed the drugs “impaired Cornell’s cognition, clouded his judgment, and caused him to engage in dangerous impulsive behaviours that he was unable to control, costing him his life”.

In court papers responding to the case, Dr. Koblin has denied any wrongdoing or charge of Cornell’s death.

Proponents of Cornell’s family and Dr. Koblin have not responded to requests for comment.

A judge must still approve the parts of the agreement that involve Cornell’s children. The documents say the case will proceed to trial if that doesn’t happen.