Hollywood fans have been asking the same question since December: what was the cause of Peter Greene’s death? Now, long after the actor was found unresponsive in his New York apartment, officials have finally released the full findings — and they paint a tragic picture far from the speculation that swirled for weeks.
Peter Greene Death Mystery: What Happened on December 12?
Peter Greene, the character actor best known for villainous turns in Pulp Fiction and The Mask, was found dead in his Lower East Side, New York City apartment on December 12, 2025, at age 60. A wellness check was triggered when neighbors reported loud music playing continuously for more than a day and no response at the door. Greene was discovered unresponsive inside his home, and his passing was immediately confirmed by his management, though the cause was not disclosed at the time.
For months, fans and media outlets speculated about what might have happened. There were questions about possible health concerns, lingering struggles, or foul play — fueled in part by Greene’s complex personal history, which included earlier battles with addiction in the 1990s.
Official Cause Revealed: Accidental Gunshot Wound
After a thorough investigation, the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner publicly released its findings on February 18, 2026. According to the official report, Greene died from a gunshot wound to the left axilla (the armpit) that injured his brachial artery, a major blood vessel in the upper arm. The manner of death was ruled an accident, not suicide or foul play.
Medical experts explain that the brachial artery is critical for blood flow to the arm, forearm, and hand — and injury to it can cause rapid bleeding. In Greene’s case, the wound proved fatal.
This revelation answers many questions about why Greene’s death was not immediately explained publicly: examiners often take weeks to analyze wounds and rule out external causes before releasing a complete report.
Why Did It Take Two Months for the Cause to Be Shared?
Autopsy reports and medical examiner findings often take time, particularly when firearms are involved. Authorities must review ballistic evidence, interview witnesses or family, and rule out other explanations before making a definitive statement. That’s likely why the official cause was released only in mid-February, even though Greene passed away in early December.
There was no indication of any third party involvement. Law enforcement sources and Greene’s management both confirmed that no foul play was suspected and that the death was not related to any external conflict.
Remembering Peter Greene Beyond the Tragedy
Though his death was sudden and tragic, Greene leaves behind a career that spanned decades and a body of work beloved by film fans. Character actors like Greene often don’t get top billing, but his memorable roles in cult classics resonated with audiences around the world. Films like Pulp Fiction, The Mask, The Usual Suspects, and Training Day showcased his ability to bring complex, intense characters to life with authenticity and depth.
Colleagues and friends have celebrated his talent and kindness in interviews following the release of the death report, noting that behind his often intimidating screen presence was a creative spirit with a generous heart.
