Presley Gerber Battled Internal Struggles Before Death, Source Says
A close acquaintance of the late model revealed that Presley Gerber contended with significant personal "demons" that extended beyond the challenges of his famous upbringing.
Presley Gerber was grappling with internal struggles and "demons" years before his death at the age of 27, according to a source who knew him personally. The source, who became acquainted with Gerber while he worked at Cafe Habana in Malibu, California, described him as a "great kid" who was "super nice" but appeared troubled by issues that transcended the pressures of being the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and nightlife mogul Rande Gerber.
"He had demons. Not all related to being a celebrity kid," the source told Page Six. "It's tough because you never know if someone wants to be your friend or wants something."
A second source, who had previously worked with Rande Gerber, expressed fondness for the family, describing Rande as "the nicest dude" and stating that "no one would have a bad thing to say about them." This source also noted that they were not surprised to learn Presley's death was potentially linked to an overdose, adding, "Some people are just born like that. That's their path."
The Gerber family is reportedly devastated by Presley's death on Sunday from a suspected overdose. A source close to the family stated that his sister, Kaia Gerber, 25, is taking the loss "very, very hard," emphasizing their close bond. Their mother, Cindy Crawford, is described as "inconsolable" and "absolutely devastated."
Presley Gerber died at Resolutions Living, a rehabilitation facility in Santa Monica, California, which offers treatment for substance addiction and mental health issues. He had checked himself into the facility just days prior to his death. Emergency services responded to a 911 call reporting "cardiac arrest" and "overdose."
Earlier reports indicated that Gerber had openly discussed his struggles with substance use and had detailed the "cocktail" of pills he was taking in the months leading up to his death. A representative for the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.