Food Critic Josh Ozersky Drowned During Seizure: Medical Examiner

The Cook County medical examiner's office says food critic Josh Ozersky, who was found dead in a Chicago hotel room earlier this month, drowned in a shower while suffering a seizure.

The 47-year-old Ozersky, known for his witty and snarky writing generally focused on his obsession with meat, was in Chicago for the James Beard Foundation Awards. He was found dead May 4 at the Conrad Chicago Hotel.

The medical examiner's office announced the cause of death Wednesday.

Ozersky was a food writer for Esquire and a frequent contributor to other publications, including the Wall Street Journal and Food & Wine. He also was founding editor of New York Magazine's Grub Street blog.

Ozersky was on the awards committee for this year's Beard Foundation awards, which honors top chefs.

Contact Us