Cause of Mike Williams deathTampa Bay Buccaneers player
The cause of death report from the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner in Tampa, Florida, stated that Mike Williams, a former wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, passed away due to multiple factors related to his overall health. While it did not definitively attribute his death to a head injury sustained at a construction site two weeks prior, it indicated various health issues, including potential problems with dental hygiene, as potential contributors.
Although the extent of the workplace injury’s influence remains unclear, factors such as bacterial sepsis, cerebral abscesses, necrotizing pneumonia stemming from dental cavities or infections, and retained tooth roots were noted as part of Williams’ cause of death. According to Dr. Rajiv Kalra, a dentist, Williams might have required extractions that were not performed, leading to infected tooth roots and cavities affecting his overall health.
Heart disease was also cited as a contributing factor. Williams was hospitalized the day after the construction site incident, with initial scans revealing brain swelling and infections. The medical examiner suggested that these infections might have originated from oral infections spreading through his bloodstream.
Dr. Kalra highlighted the connection between periodontal disease and heart disease, underscoring the interconnectedness of bodily health. Although the report did not specify the extent of the injury’s role in Williams’ death, it noted his daily use of kratom and a history of marijuana consumption. The Tampa Police Department is investigating potential criminal implications regarding prescription drugs Williams had taken around the time of his cardiac arrest, although he possessed a medical marijuana license.
Williams sustained the initial injury while working for an electrical company in Tampa. During his career, spanning from 2010 to 2014, he played for the Buccaneers and the Bills, achieving 26 touchdowns and over 3,000 yards. He was the runner-up for the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Award in 2010.
Despite attempts to contact family members for comment on the medical examiner’s findings, none were available for response.
