Cardiologist dies in fire after arrest for child sex abuse materials
Ryan McDonough, DO, a 46-year-old interventional cardiologist from Wasilla, Alaska, has been found dead in his home after a fire.
McDonough’s death comes just days after he was arrested and charged with 10 counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials. On Dec. 11, he was captured as part of Task Force Dawnbreaker, a months-long investigation put together by the Alaska Bureau of Investigation’s Technical Crimes Unit, Homeland Security Investigations and the Anchorage Police Department. The investigation started in August, when authorities received a tip that McDonough was visiting websites associated with the sexual abuse of children.
McDonough’s home was searched as part of his arrest. His electronic devices were seized. He was originally held on no bail. However, he was released on Dec. 12 after a $50,000 bond was posted. On that same day, McDonough’s attorney pleaded not guilty.
McDonough was fired from his role as a cardiologist with Mat-Su Regional Medical Center and Mat-Su Medical Group after his charges were announced to the public. He is no longer listed on their website as a cardiologist. He previously worked for the Alaska Heart and Vascular Institute.
Ryan McDonough, DO.
In August, McDonough had been appointed to Alaska’s State Medical Board by Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy. A Dunleavy spokesperson shared a statement with the Anchorage Daily News, emphasizing that the governor “was never aware of any criminal investigation against him.”
“Background checks do not reveal future or current criminal investigations involving an appointee to a board or commission,” the spokesperson added.
Additional details about the house fire at McDonough’s home
Authorities responded to reports of a fire at McDonough’s residence on Dec. 13. The remains of an adult male were recovered inside the home. The body was confirmed to be McDonough on Dec. 15.
“The investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is ongoing,” according to a prepared statement from the Alaska State Troopers.
Michael has more than 19 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.