Robin Williams Suicide: Authorities Say Williams Hanged Himself, Autopsy Scheduled For Today

Robin Williams committed suicide on Monday, Aug. 11. According to an update from TMZ, it has been reported that Williams hanged himself. The actor and comedian had recently been battling severe depression according to his rep. His body was found inside his home in Tiburon, California, and preliminary reports indicated that Williams took his own life. The coroner said that Williams died of asphyxia, which occurs when the body is denied oxygen. It has now been confirmed that this happened as a result of the hanging.

According to The LA Times, an autopsy is scheduled for today. The coroner may or may not release an official cause of death following the results. A toxicology test will also be sent out, and those results can take four to six weeks.

Robin Williams committed suicide just a couple of months after going to rehab. Although he has been sober for 20 years, the actor reportedly checked into rehab to seek occasional treatment as a sort of refresher, if you will. His last trip to rehab was in June/July of this year.

As previously reported by The Inquisitr, the actor checked himself in to the Hazelden Addiction Treatment Center near Lindstrom, Minnesota. There, he took part in their program at “The Lodge” that helped people cope with long-term sobriety. At the time, his rep said that Williams was just “fine-tuning” his commitment.

“After working back-to-back projects, Robin is simply taking the opportunity to fine-tune and focus on his continued commitment, of which he remains extremely proud.”

Robin Williams’ suicide is completely shocking. People all over the world have been left feeling numb after hearing the news. It’s hard to imagine that someone so funny, bright, and talented was hurting so deeply on the inside. Many wonder if Williams’ rehab stay last month was meant to help him combat his negative feelings, but it’s unknown what happened whilst he was seeking treatment. It sounds like he did try to get himself help… but his sorrows were far too overwhelming.

Williams’ family has asked for privacy following this unthinkable tragedy. It is believed that funeral arrangements will be scheduled for later this week. It is unknown if the services will be private or who will attend. Williams had many friends in Hollywood, all of whom would presumably want to pay their respects to a man they admired, respected and loved.

Robin Williams will be greatly missed by all.

[Photo courtesy of Peggy Sirota via Parade]