Presley Gerber, the 27-year-old son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, has died in Santa Monica, California, leaving his family, friends and supporters mourning the loss of a young model who later became known for speaking openly about mental health and addiction.

Gerber died on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at a rehabilitation facility, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. His death was confirmed by a representative for his family, who asked the public to respect their privacy during what was described as an extremely difficult and painful time.

Presley Gerber’s Cause of Death Investigation

The circumstances surrounding Gerber’s death remain under investigation. Santa Monica police said officers responded at approximately 9:35 a.m. on September 20 to a report of a possible overdose and found an adult male deceased. Authorities identified the individual as Presley Gerber, 27.

Police are investigating the death as a suspected overdose and said there is currently no indication of foul play. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of death.

An autopsy has been performed, but additional testing is required before the medical examiner can issue a final determination. The cause of death has therefore not been officially established. Reports about an apparent overdose and cardiac arrest describe the circumstances under investigation rather than a confirmed medical cause.

A Career in Modeling

Born in California in 1999, Gerber entered the fashion industry as a teenager, following in the footsteps of his mother. He worked with major fashion brands and appeared in campaigns and runway presentations involving names such as Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino, Celine and Pepsi.

One of his most recognizable public appearances came in 2018, when he appeared alongside Cindy Crawford in a Pepsi commercial connected to Super Bowl LII. The appearance highlighted the close relationship between mother and son while introducing Gerber to an even wider audience.

His younger sister, Kaia Gerber, also developed a successful career as a model and actress, making the Gerber siblings familiar figures in the fashion and entertainment industries.

Mental Health and Recovery Advocacy

Away from the runway, Gerber increasingly used his public platform to discuss personal challenges involving mental health, depression and substance use.

In a 2023 podcast appearance, he spoke candidly about his experiences and the difficulties associated with mental health treatment. He also shared discussions about recovery through social media, including a series known as “Mental Health Mondays,” where he encouraged more open conversations about subjects that people often keep private.

His willingness to speak publicly about his experiences became an important part of how he was known in his later years. Rather than focusing solely on his modeling career and famous family, Gerber attempted to use his visibility to encourage conversations around emotional well-being, addiction and recovery.

Family Mourns Presley Gerber

Gerber was the only son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber and the older brother of Kaia Gerber. His death represents a devastating loss for a family that had spent much of his life in the public eye.

Recent reporting has also highlighted how openly Gerber and members of his family had discussed the challenges surrounding his mental health and substance-use struggles. His sister Kaia had spoken about him publicly shortly before his death, emphasizing the importance of his openness about those experiences.

The family has asked for privacy as they process his death.

Remembering Presley Gerber

Presley Gerber leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his work as a model. While he was born into one of the most recognizable families in fashion and entertainment, his own public journey included efforts to speak honestly about personal struggles and encourage others to seek healthier paths.

His modeling work brought him international attention, but his later willingness to discuss mental health and recovery added another dimension to his public life.

At 27, Gerber’s death has brought renewed attention to a young life shaped by fashion, family, public scrutiny and personal challenges. As authorities continue their investigation and await additional medical testing, those closest to him are mourning Presley not simply as the son of famous parents, but as a brother, son, friend and individual who sought to use his experiences to help others.