Watch CBS News

Reports: Actress Elizabeth Pena Died From Alcohol Abuse

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com)  —   Prolific TV and film star Elizabeth Pena -- who died last week at the age of 55 -- died as a result of alcohol abuse, according to various reports.

Pena, who first rose to prominence in movies like "La Bamba," most recently starred on the sitcom "Modern Family" playing Sofia Vergara's mother.

The actress' death certificate was first obtained by TMZ.com.

The entertainment website said Pena was suffering from cirrhosis of the liver "due to alcohol," according to the death certificate.

The death report also said Pena had bleeding in her gastrointestinal tract which caused her heart to stop.

In addition to her aforementioned credits, Pena had memorable turns in movies like "Lone Star," "Free Willy," "Jacob's Ladder," "Blue Steel," "Rush Hour" and "*batteries not included," as well as TV shows like "LA Law" and "Resurrection Boulevard."

Pena won four ALMA (American Latino Media Arts" Awards.

RELATED STORY:

Prolific Movie, TV Actress Elizabeth Pena Dead At 55

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.