A federal investigation into the circumstances surrounding actor Matthew Perry's death last year, specifically concerning the supply of ketamine, may result in charges against multiple individuals, according to a law enforcement source briefed on the matter, as reported by NBC News on Wednesday.

Matthew Perry, 54, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic sitcom "Friends," tragically passed away on October 28 at his residence in Los Angeles. The investigation, jointly led by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), remains ongoing, with no immediate actions expected at this stage, the source indicated. People magazine was the first to disclose the story.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office attributed Perry's death primarily to the acute effects of ketamine, exacerbated by drowning, coronary artery disease, and the impact of buprenorphine, a synthetic opioid used in treating opioid addiction. Despite Perry publicly acknowledging his history of substance use, the medical examiner noted he had reportedly maintained sobriety for 19 months before his death.

According to the coroner's report, Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy to manage depression and anxiety, with his last treatment occurring approximately 1½ weeks prior to his passing. Nonetheless, the autopsy revealed unusually high levels of ketamine in his system, comparable to those administered for general anesthesia during surgical procedures. Investigators are perplexed by the persistence of these elevated levels, as ketamine typically metabolizes within hours.

Alongside federal scrutiny, Perry's death is under investigation by the LAPD, highlighting the thorough review of circumstances surrounding the actor's untimely demise.

The tragic incident has garnered significant attention due to Perry's celebrity status and the perplexing aspects of the ketamine levels found in his system despite recent treatment. As investigations progress, authorities are focused on uncovering any potential lapses in the management or supply of ketamine that may have played a role in the events leading to Perry's death. The case underscores broader concerns about substance use and the oversight of medical treatments in high-profile settings.