Comedian and Actor Robin Williams Died of Apparent Suicide

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Award winning Robin Williams, found dead in his California home on Monday.

Report by Paula Antolini
Aug 11, 2014 at 9:12PM EDT

According to the coroner’s report, comedian and actor Robin Williams died this morning at age 63, from an apparent suicide.

He was found unconscious at his home in Tiburon, CA, on August 11, 2014, and pronounced dead at the scene. “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.”

Susan Schneider, Williams’ wife, released the following statement to the New York Times: “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 that the focus will not be on Robin’s death but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”

His publicist would not confirm the cause of death as suicide but a Rep statement was as follows: “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.” (Entertainment Weekly)

Williams was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times and received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Good Will Hunting (1997). He received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globes, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and five Grammy Awards.

Robin Williams was accomplished as a comedian, actor and voice actor. He rose to fame in his role as alien Mork in the 1978-1982 TV series “Mork and Mindy.” His long career spans decades and continued in TV, film, theater and as a stand-up comedian.

His film career: Good Morning Vietnam (1987), Dead Poets Society (1989), Awakenings (1990), The Fisher king (1991), Good Will Hunting (1997). Other successes were: Popeye (1980), Hook (1991), Aladdin (1992), Mrs. Doubtfire (1993), Jumanji (1995), The Birdcage (1996), Night at the Museum (2006), Happy Feet (2006). He also appeared in the video to “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin.

Fox, which is expected to release the third Night at the Museum film, issued this statement: “There really are no words to describe the loss of Robin Williams. He was immensely talented, a cherished member of our community, and part of the Fox family. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and fans. He will be deeply missed.” (Entertainment Weekly)

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See Full News Release from the Marin County Sheriff’s Office here:

Marin County Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lt. Keith Boyd
Assistant Chief Deputy Coroner
415-827-8202
kboyd@marinsheriff.org

August 11, 2014

Investigation into Death of Actor Robin Williams

On August 11, 2014, at approximately 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 10:00pm 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.

Media inquiries should be directed to Lt. Keith Boyd at 415-827-8202 or kboyd@marinsheriff.org.

3501 Civic Center Drive #241
San Rafael, CA 94903