Another Rich Kid Gone

Jason Sears of Rich Kids on LSD died January 31 in a Tijuana clinic that reportedly specializes in alternative methods of drug detox. The clinic, operated by the U.S.-based Ibogaine Association, occupies a two-story house near the beach. As part of his treatment, Sears was given the drug Ibogaine, derived from a plant in West Africa and said to ease withdrawal symptoms (according to animal research and a handful of human case studies). Ibogaine cannot be legally purchased or prescribed in the U.S.

A medical examiner determined that the 38-year-old died from pulmonary thrombosis. No determination has been made that the drug contributed to Sears's death.

Sears fronted the Rich Kids from 1983 through 1989. He rejoined in 1994 and stayed through the making of their most recent studio album, Riches to Rags (1995). After the album, Sears occasionally performed with the band. Sears recorded his last album with San Diego's Mercury Legion. Rich Kids on LSD founding drummer Richard Anthony Manzullo (a.k.a. Bomer) died December 12 of last year.