The upsetting story millions of entertainment fans were hoping was a hoax appears to be legitimate.
Actor Robin Williams died Monday at the age of 63, says the Marin County Sheriff’s Office. His wife Susan Schneider later confirmed the passing.
“On August 11, 2014, at approximately 11:55 a.m, 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,” says the office’s statement. “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.”
According to the report, Williams was last seen alive at 10PM Monday night in the home he shares with his wife. The 9-1-1 call was placed Monday morning when his unconscious body was discovered.
“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,” says the report.
An initial forensic examination is scheduled for Tuesday; toxicology testing will follow.
Confirming the story, 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. 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.”
