Colorado investigators have confirmed that the 2005 death of journalist Hunter S Thompson was a suicide, following a review prompted by concerns raised by his wife. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) announced the findings on Friday, reaffirming the original conclusion.
The review was initiated in September after Thompson's widow, Anita Thompson, contacted authorities with "new concerns and potential information" regarding the investigation into his death. In a statement, she thanked the bureau for its "kind and thorough work," adding, "This allows all of us who loved Hunter to move forward with a clean conscience."
Thompson, known for pioneering gonzo journalism in works such as Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, died at his home near Aspen, Colorado, in February 2005 at the age of 67. His body was cremated and, per his wishes, fired from a cannon during a private ceremony attended by actor Johnny Depp, who portrayed him in the 1998 film adaptation of his book.
Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione expressed confidence in the original investigation but acknowledged the importance of an independent review. "The CBI's conclusions reaffirm the original findings and, we hope, provide reassurance and clarity," he said.
