On November 28, 2022, authorities conducted a welfare check on Dr. Eric Andrew Salata, a 54-year-old physician from Naples, Florida, after his ankle monitor showed no movement for several hours. Deputies discovered his body in a ditch near his residence, with a gunshot wound to the head and a pistol located beside his right leg. Prior to this, Salata had left two notes, his wedding ring, and credit cards at his home.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office stated that his death did not appear suspicious, suggesting an apparent suicide.
Dr. Salata's death occurred shortly after his arrest on November 21, 2022, on charges of sexual battery against two female patients, aged 51 and 72. These women alleged that during cosmetic procedures at Salata's practice, Pura Vida Medical Spa in Naples, he administered sedatives, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and, in one instance, offered alcohol, rendering them physically helpless before sexually assaulting them. Both victims underwent sexual assault examinations, and evidence was collected for further investigation.
Following his arrest, Salata was released on a $200,000 bond and was under house arrest with an ankle monitor. He was not required to surrender his firearms as a condition of his release. His arraignment was scheduled for December 19, 2022. In the wake of his death, additional women came forward with similar allegations, bringing the total number of potential victims to at least eleven. Attorney Adam Horowitz, representing one of the victims, expressed frustration that Salata's death prevented him from being held accountable in court.
The investigation into Dr. Salata's actions and the circumstances surrounding his death remains ongoing. Authorities have not disclosed further details pending the completion of the autopsy and additional inquiries.
