REPORT: Killer Whale That Colts Owner Jim Irsay Spent $20 Million To Save Has Died

Lolita, an orca whale estimated to have been 57 years of age, has passed away.

Also known as “Tokitae”, Lolita made headlines this year when Indianapolis Colts’ owner Jim Irsay helped secure an agreement to send her back to an ocean sanctuary. Irsay pledged $20 million to have Lolita sent back home safely.

Per WTHR, it’s suspected that “renal condition” may have been the cause of death. A group who worked tirelessly on freeing Lolita gave the following statement to WTHR:

“Over the last two days, Toki started exhibiting serious signs of discomfort, which her full Miami Seaquarium and Friends of Toki medical team began treating immediately and aggressively. 

Despite receiving the best possible medical care, she passed away Friday afternoon from what is believed to be a renal condition. 

Toki was an inspiration to all who had the fortune to hear her story and especially to the Lummi nation that considered her family. Those of us who have had the honor and privilege to spend time with her will forever remember her beautiful spirit.”

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Irsay also shared a statement on her passing:

I am heartbroken that Toki has left us. Her story captured my heart, just as it did millions of others. I was honored to be part of the team working to return her to her indigenous home, and I take solace in knowing that we significantly improved her living conditions this past…

— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) August 18, 2023

The 64-year-old Irsay took over ownership of the Colts following the passing of his father, Robert, in 1997. The club has reached two Super Bowls under Irsay’s ownership (Super Bowls 41 and 44), winning it all in the 2006 season.

The Colts were a consistent contender from 1999 to 2014, but the club has been mired in mediocrity since 2015. They’ve reached the playoffs only two times since their trip to the 2014 AFC Championship Game, winning just a single postseason game (their 2018 Wild Card Round game vs. the Houston Texans).

Indianapolis will open their 2023 season with a Week 1 home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 10.