Actor Robin Williams found dead in his California home

Dec 19 2017, 7:36 pm

Actor Robin Williams was found dead this morning in his California home, and authorities are investigating the circumstances behind the 63-year-old comedian’s death.

“The Marin County Sheriff’s Office said that Williams was found unconscious Monday afternoon at about 12:00 p.m. inside his residence in unincorporated Tiburon,” reports San Francisco Bay-area’s KRON news.

Buzzfeed has posted copies of the official investigation documents:

 

Williams’ death is suspected to be a suicide by asphyxia.

Robin’s wife, Susan Schneider, says, “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,” reports TMZ.

The talented comedian began his career in stand-up, but rose to fame via the TV hit “Mork & Mindy.” Known for his quirky humour and improvised zany riffs, Williams’ career has long been shadowed by his own battles with substance abuse and depression. The actor had recently returned to rehab.

Williams’ film career spanned several decades and genres. He earned an Academy Award nomination for “Good Morning Vietnam” (1987), as well as for “Good Will Hunting” (1997), “Dead Poets Society” (1989), and “The Fisher King” (1991). His beloved comedy roles include the voice of the Genie in “Aladdin” (1992), and as the titular “Mrs. Doubtfire,” (1993).

Among his films made in Vancouver were “Jumanji” (1995), “Insomnia” (2002), and the “Night at the Museum”, including the upcoming third film set to open later this year.

Williams had recently returned to TV to star in the sitcom “The Crazy Ones.”

He leaves behind his current wife, and three children from two previous marriages.

Celebrities, scores of fans and even President Obama have come forward with statements of grief over the loss of Williams.

 

UPDATE TUESDAY AUGUST 12: In a press conference held by the Marin County Sheriff’s Department, Lt. Keith Boyd confirmed Williams was found dead in his Northern California home by his personal assistant the morning of August 11. He was found hanging to death by a belt in an unspecified room of the home. Boyd indicated that final rulings will be made and released pending standard toxicology tests, which take about two to six weeks, however the preliminary determination is that Williams’ cause of death was asphyxiation by means of hanging, and it was a suicide.

Officials say Williams was last seen alive in his home at about 10 p.m. Sunday. His wife retired to bed at around 10:30 p.m.

Funeral arrangements for Williams are at the sole discretion of his family, noted Boyd.

Boyd says their investigation is ongoing.

Featured photo: Shutterstock

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