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Cause of death revealed for 22-year-old who died on LA-bound Southwest flight
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner says 22-year-old Rain McMillen Walmsley died from the combined effects of two compounds found in kratom. His death was ruled accidental, renewing attention to concerns about kratom products, particularly concentrated versions of one compound that can have opioid-like effects.
Walmsley became unresponsive during Southwest Flight 958 from Dallas to Los Angeles on 7 August. Crew and passengers tried CPR, and emergency responders met the plane at Los Angeles International Airport, but he could not be revived. Kratom is widely sold and unregulated; Irvine has recently restricted synthetic products to people aged 21 and over and banned products containing more than 2% 7-OH.
In short
- A 22-year-old died from the combined effects of two kratom compounds.
- His death aboard a flight was ruled accidental.
- Irvine has set limits on synthetic kratom sales and potency.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of tighter restrictions argue that concentrated kratom compounds such as 7-OH can have opioid-like effects, while products are widely sold with limited oversight. Age limits and caps on concentration could reduce exposure to stronger products and give regulators better tools to address safety concerns raised by this death.
The case against
Those wary of tighter restrictions may argue that one accidental death does not establish the risks of all kratom products, and that broad controls could restrict access to less concentrated products as well. They may favour clearer labelling, quality standards and further evidence about specific compounds, while preserving adult choice and avoiding rules that push demand towards less regulated sources.