What is nitrous oxide? My Chemical Romance’s Bob Bryar reportedly found with flammable gas canisters next to body

The death of the former My Chemical Romance drummer Bob Bryar has drawn renewed attention towards nitrous oxide, the gas that was allegedly found next to his corpse. Bryar, 44, was found dead in his home in Tennessee on November 24, 2024.

After more than three months of the drummer's passing, the medical examiner reveals that three canisters of nitrous oxide were placed next to his decomposing body, with tubing connected and ready to use, according to an autopsy report obtained by TMZ.

Nitrous oxide (N₂O), also called laughing gas or nos, is a colorless, odorless gas used in medical and recreational contexts.

Although the cause of death itself is classified as undetermined, it's the nitrous oxide that was present near Bob Bryar's corpse that has led to questions about the risks and effects of the substance.

Nitrous oxide is most famously known for its use in anesthesia and dentistry, combined with oxygen to help alleviate pain and achieve mild sedation.

It is also used in the food industry as a propellant in whipped cream dispensers and the automotive industry as an enhancer of engine performance.

According to Sky News, nitrous oxide is also abused as a recreational drug, particularly for its brief euphoric and dissociative effects. When inhaled, it slows brain and body functions, resulting in euphoric, lightheaded and even hallucinatory feelings. The gas is often inhaled through balloons or directly from canisters.

A look into Bob Bryar's legacy as a drummer

Bob Bryar started with the My Chemical Romance band in 2004, taking over for Matt Pelissier, and helped shape their sound while their stardom was on the rise. He played a role on the band’s defining record, The Black Parade (2006), along with Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys (2010).

Before joining My Chemical Romance, Bryar attended the University of Florida where he studied sound engineering and worked as a touring sound engineer for bands including Thrice and The Used.

Later when he was with My Chemical Romance, his contributions involved much more than just drumming. According to Rolling Stone, he was often heavily involved in the song arrangements. He left the band in 2010, with guitarist Frank Iero calling it a “painful decision” for everyone concerned.

Following the split, Bob Bryar removed himself from music, working with dog rescue operations for more than a decade, before moving into a career in real estate. He stayed involved in My Chemical Romance’s legacy, selling off memorabilia like his Black Parade uniform and drum kit to benefit animal charities.