Vatican Confirms Official Cause of Pope Francis’ Death

The Vatican officially confirmed on Monday that Pope Francis died from a cerebral stroke, bringing clarity to the cause of death following his recent hospitalization and declining health, as reported by Fox News.

Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, head of the Vatican’s health department, issued a statement explaining that the stroke led to a coma and ultimately caused irreversible heart failure.

Additional underlying health conditions were also cited as contributing factors, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, respiratory insufficiency, and a recent bout of bilateral pneumonia.

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Pope Francis, 88, passed away the day after Easter, just hours after a brief meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance.

Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I am grateful for his invitation to meet, and I pray for his good health.

Happy Easter! pic.twitter.com/SIhU9gYQl2

— Vice President JD Vance (@VP) April 20, 2025

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The pontiff’s death ended a papacy that began in 2013 when he became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, as well as the first Jesuit to hold the position.

Dr. Arcangeli’s announcement marks the first detailed disclosure regarding the pope’s final hours, confirming widespread speculation over his declining condition in recent weeks.

Pope Francis gave JD Vance a rosary.

In one of the last videos ever taken of the Holy Father, he gives VP Vance the gift of a rosary. ❤️

Such a beautiful moment. pic.twitter.com/ClHT8OGpTs

— CatholicVote (@CatholicVote) April 21, 2025

The pope had been receiving medical attention for respiratory issues since late March, and the Vatican previously acknowledged he had been battling pneumonia.

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was known for his outreach to the poor and his vocal stances on climate change, migration, and economic inequality.

However, he also drew controversy within both the Church and broader political circles for his repeated criticism of national immigration policies, including those of the Trump administration.

Pope Francis’s death comes during a period of significant global political change and heightened religious scrutiny, with Vatican officials expected to begin preparations for the conclave to elect a new pope.

Despite ongoing health concerns in recent months, the pontiff had continued to hold weekly audiences and public appearances. His final public act included a symbolic Easter Mass and a private meeting with Vice President Vance at the Vatican.

Vatican officials have not yet announced funeral arrangements or released details on when the College of Cardinals will convene to begin the process of selecting his successor.

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