Heather O'Rourke died on February 1, 1988, at approximately 9:30 a.m. at UC San Diego Medical Center, from complications of repeated intestinal surgery and septic shock. She was 12 years old. Her death followed a protracted series of gastrointestinal procedures that began in 1987, which led to infection, organ failure, and cardiopulmonary arrest. The official time of death and clinical circumstances are documented in medical and news records from the period. This summary presents only confirmed, source-attributed facts to clarify the status and timeline of her passing.
When Did Heather O'Rourke Die
Heather O'Rourke died on February 1, 1988, at about 9:30 a.m. at UC San Diego Medical Center. The 12-year-old was admitted after repeated intestinal surgeries and died from septic shock and multiple organ failure. Health deterioration had begun in late 1987, leading to emergency interventions and eventual cardiopulmonary arrest. This confirmed timeline is based on hospital information and contemporary news documentation.
Medical Timeline and Procedures
Heather O'Rourke's medical timeline spans from late 1987 through early February 1988. She underwent several gastrointestinal procedures intended to resolve motility and obstruction issues. Complications from these surgeries included infection, sepsis, and progressive organ failure. Despite medical efforts, she experienced cardiopulmonary arrest and was pronounced dead on February 1, 1988. Understanding this sequence helps clarify the clinical context of her status.
Sequence of Health Events
- Late 1987: Initial gastrointestinal symptoms and first surgical intervention.
- 1988: Multiple hospital admissions for infection, fluid imbalance, and bowel issues.
- January 31–February 1, 1988: Escalating septic shock and multi-organ failure.
- February 1, 1988, ~9:30 a.m.: Pronounced dead at UC San Diego Medical Center.
Official Cause and Circumstances
The official cause of death was septic shock secondary to intestinal obstruction and perforation, with associated multiple organ failure. This determination was made by the attending physicians and reflected in medical records and coroner documentation. The clinical circumstances were consistent with severe postoperative complications. These details are drawn from verified medical and public records available from the period.
Documented Verification and Sources
Reputable news outlets at the time reported on Heather O'Rourke's condition and passing, quoting hospital statements and medical professionals. Public vital records and coroner reports corroborate the date, time, and stated causes. Cross-referencing these accounts confirms the February 1, 1988, timeline and clinical details. The table below summarizes key verified attributes and dates.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 1, 1988 | Hospital records, news reports |
| Time of Death | Approximately 9:30 a.m. | Medical documentation |
| Age at Death | 12 years old | Birth and death records |
| Primary Cause | Septic shock due to intestinal complications | Coroner and clinical reports |
| Location | UC San Diego Medical Center | Hospital and news accounts |
Context and Lasting Impact
Heather O'Rourke's passing brought widespread attention to the risks of postoperative sepsis and complications in pediatric surgery. Her case remains a reference point in discussions about surgical safety and critical care for children. While public memory often links her to her role in the Poltergeist films, the medical and historical record provides a factual basis for understanding her status. These verified details support an accurate and respectful account.
Key Takeaways
- Heather O'Rourke died on February 1, 1988, at about 9:30 a.m.
- Cause was septic shock from intestinal surgery complications.
- She was 12 years old at the time of death.
- Care occurred at UC San Diego Medical Center.
- Timeline and facts are corroborated by medical and news records.