ACTOR-COMEDIAN ROBIN WILLIAMS FOUND DEAD IN APPARENT SUICIDE

MARIN COUNTY, Calif. -- The actor-comedian Robin Williams was found dead at his home Monday morning in an apparent suicide by asphyxiation, Marin County Sheriff's officials said.

The Marin County Sheriff's Department received a 911 report of a male not breathing in a residence in unincorporated Tiburon, California at 11:55 a.m. Monday. Emergency personnel arrived and pronounced the subject deceased at 12:02 p.m. He was identified as Robin McLaurin Williams, 63.

Preliminary information indicated Williams was last seen alive at the residence at approximately 10 p.m. Sunday. He was located Monday shortly before 11:55 a.m. His wife also lives at the residence.

"At this time, the Sheriff's Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made. A forensic examination is currently scheduled for August 12, 2014 with subsequent toxicology testing to be conducted," the Marin County Sheriff's department said.

"This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin's family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief. As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin's death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions," Susan Schneider, Williams' wife, said Monday.

Mara Buxbaum, a representative for Williams, released a statement Monday afternoon: "Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time."


Leave a comment