If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting “988.”
Newly reviewed 911 audio recordings from Miami-Dade County reveal the emergency response timeline at the residence of celebrity blogger Perez Hilton. Dispatchers alerted responders that the 48-year-old was potentially armed and suffering from injuries after he was observed appearing to harm himself during a TikTok livestream. The initial emergency calls were placed shortly before 7 p.m. on August 4.
Emergency personnel were dispatched to Hilton’s home in the Westchester neighborhood of Miami, located approximately 10 miles west of the city’s downtown area. Responders were initially assigned to provide “basic life support,” a classification typically distinct from the “advanced life support” protocols reserved for acute medical emergencies like cardiac events. The incident was officially categorized as a “possible suicide,” leading sheriff’s deputies to instruct responders to wait in the vicinity before eventually entering the home hours later to transport Hilton to a medical facility.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office stated that in situations involving individuals in mental health crises or active self-harm, deputies prioritize de-escalation strategies by establishing time, distance, and communication channels. The dispatch audio indicates the operation spanned nearly four hours. Following the initial arrival, emergency staff were sent back to the property around 10:40 p.m., and by 11 p.m., they reported coordinating with law enforcement to gain entry and provide medical assistance.
On August 5, Hilton’s family issued a statement confirming that he is currently receiving medical care. “Many of you have reached out with concern for Perez, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and prayers,” the family wrote. They added that their primary focus remains on his well-being as he undergoes treatment.
They responded with “ basic life support,” which generally is a tier below “advanced life support” for 911 emergencies such as heart attacks.
reported working alongside police to enter and tend to Hilton.
