Cardiologist Conrad Murray joined Jackson's camp in May 2009 as part of Jackson's agreement with AEG Live, the promoter of his London concerts. Murray first met Jackson in Las Vegas  when the doctor treated one of the singer’s children. AEG Live said the singer insisted the company hire Murray to accompany him to England.  Murray said through his attorney that he did not prescribe or administer Pethidine or Oxycodone to Jackson, but did not say what, if anything, he did prescribe or administer.  Los Angeles police said the doctor spoke to officers immediately after Jackson's death, and during an extensive interview two days later. They stressed that they found "no red flag" and did not suspect foul play.  On June 26, police towed away a car used by Murray, stating that it might contain medication or other evidence. The police released the car five days later.

Politician and minister Jesse Jackson, a friend of Michael Jackson's family, said that the family was concerned about Murray's role. "They have good reason to be [...] he left the scene." Over the next few weeks, law enforcement grew increasingly concerned about the doctor, and on July 22 detectives searched Murray's medical office and storage unit in Houston, removing items such as a computer and two hard drives, contact lists and a hospital suspension notice. On the 27th, an anonymous source reported that Murray had administered propofol within 24 ...