Florida Mega-Church Pastor Found in Times Square Hotel Room Died From Cocaine, Heroin: ME

A Florida mega-church pastor whose body was found in a Times Square hotel room two years ago died from the combined effects of cocaine and heroin, the New York City medical examiner's office said.

Results released Thursday ruled the death of Zachery Tims accidental.

He was found dead on the floor of a room at the upscale W Hotel in Times Square in August 2011. Sources familiar with the investigation told NBC 4 New York that a glassine envelope of white powder was found in his right pants pocket.

Tims was the senior pastor of New Destiny Christian Center in Apopka, one of the largest congregations in central Florida. He also appeared on Christian television and radio programs.

Tims started the 7,000 member church in 1996.

The Orlando Sentinel said Tims had been in and out of jail as a young man and hoped the church's youth center would keep youngsters away from drugs and crime.

Church officials did not immediately respond to a comment request.

-Jonathan Dienst contributed to this report

 
Copyright AP - Associated Press
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