Early morning alarm: Discovered unresponsive
On June 17, around 7:50 a.m., police and EMS responded to a 911 call for a woman in cardiac distress. They found Anne unresponsive in her Brooklyn apartment. She was pronounced dead on the scene.
Immediate cause: Cardiac arrest suspected
Eyewitness reports to TMZ and Aftonbladet suggest Anne suffered cardiac arrest—a sudden stop of her heart—leading to rapid collapse. Paramedics attempted revival, but she couldn’t be saved.
Autopsy awaited: Official confirmation pending
As a result, the Office of Chief Medical Examiner has initiated an autopsy. While initial news indicates cardiac arrest, no formal cause of death has been released. Investigators are awaiting toxicology reports and deeper findings.
A final vibrant presence: Her last public moments
Just five days earlier, Anne shared an Instagram post with “the Green Lady of Brooklyn,” her face lit with joy. She had also been actively involved in culinary projects and filmed NBC’s Today Show in April. The shock of her sudden passing hit fans harder because she seemed fully alive—making her death all the more heartbreaking.
Legacy and reflection: Coping with sudden loss
Anne Burrell wasn’t just a chef—she was a mentor, confidante, and beacon for amateur cooks worldwide. From Worst Cooks in America to Iron Chef America, her perseverance and zest inspired millions. Now, her sudden departure sparks collective grief, reflection on mortality, and admiration for how she lived—fully and passionately.