Death of Gary Webb

Gary Webb died on December 10, 2004, from two gunshot wounds to the head, officially ruled a suicide by the Sacramento County Coroner. Webb had gained national attention—and professional controversy—for his 1996 San Jose Mercury News series "Dark Alliance," which alleged connections between CIA-supported Nicaraguan Contras and crack cocaine trafficking in African American neighborhoods of Los Angeles.

Following publication of his series, Webb faced intense criticism from major newspapers including the Washington Post, New York Times, and Los Angeles Times, which challenged his reporting methodology and conclusions. The CIA conducted an internal investigation that acknowledged some agency contractors had been involved in drug trafficking but disputed Webb's claims about institutional awareness or approval.

Webb's career declined after the controversy, leading to his resignation from the Mercury News in 1997. He struggled to find employment in mainstream journalism and worked various jobs while continuing to investigate intelligence agency activities. Friends and family reported he had been despondent about his career prospects and personal financial difficulties.

Conspiracy theorists argue that Webb's death was suspicious, citing the two gunshot wounds and his ongoing criticism of government agencies. However, coroners noted that multiple gunshot wounds in suicides, while uncommon, are not unprecedented, and no evidence of foul play was discovered during the investigation. Webb's death remains a focal point for theories about government retaliation against investigative journalists.