Robin Williams dead at 63
A US county sheriff's office has confirmed that the comedic actor Robin Williams has died aged 63 at his California home, just before midday local time.
The statement reads:
"On August 11, 2014, at about 11:55 am, Marin County Communications received a 9-1-1 telephone call reporting a male adult had been located unconscious and not breathing inside his residence in unincorporated Tiburon, CA.
"The Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Tiburon Fire Department and Southern Marin Fire Protection District were dispatched to the incident with emergency personnel arriving on scene at 12:00 pm.
"The male subject, pronounced deceased at 12:02 pm has been identified as Robin McLaurin Williams, a 63 year old resident of unincorporated Tiburon, CA.
"An investigation into the cause, manner, and circumstances of the death is currently underway by the Investigations and Coroner Divisions of the Sheriff’s Office.
"Preliminary information developed during the investigation indicates Mr. Williams was last seen alive at his residence, where he resides with his wife, at approximately 10:00 pm on August 10, 2014. Mr. Williams was located this morning shortly before the 9-1-1 call was placed to Marin County Communications.
"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."
Police have confirmed that they founds Williams’ body in his home around midday Monday (California time), he was pronounced dead at 12.02pm. He was last seen alive the evening before and it is believed his wife of three years, Susan Schneider, was in the house at the time.
She has released the following statement.
“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.”
While his publicist wouldn’t confirm that it was a suicide, they did issue this statement.
“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.”
Williams, who won an Oscar for his supporting role in Good Will Hunting and had recently signed on to reprise his iconic role as Mrs. Doubtfire in a sequel.
He was last seen opposite Annette Bening in the indie film The Face of Love.