In a recently amended autopsy report, the coroner has determined that complications from a ketamine injection, following the restraint of Elijah McClain, contributed to his death. McClain, a massage therapist, musician, and animal lover, was confronted by police officers on August 24, 2019, while walking home from a convenience store. Body camera footage captured the officers wrestling McClain to the ground and placing him in a carotid hold. Paramedics later administered a powerful sedative, ketamine, and McClain suffered a heart attack on the way to the hospital. He was pronounced dead three days later.

Initially, prosecutors declined to bring charges in the case. However, in 2021, following renewed scrutiny and nationwide protests for racial justice, a grand jury indicted three officers and two paramedics in McClain's death. In the recent trial, Aurora police officer Nathan Woodyard, who put McClain in the neck hold, was acquitted of homicide and manslaughter charges.

The case has sparked national outrage and raised questions about the unlawful and unnecessary use of force by law enforcement. McClain's mother and police reform advocates are still seeking justice for Elijah. The trial of the paramedics involved in administering the ketamine is set to begin later this month.