The Passing to Be Investigated 20 Years Later
Colorado officials are taking a fresh look at the demise of writer Hunter S Thompson, 20 years after it was ruled a suicide, following a request from his surviving spouse.
Thompson passed away when he was 67 at his residence in Woody Creek, Colorado, a small town just outside Aspen, in the winter of 2005.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation said on Tuesday that it was conducting a "independent assessment" of the 2005 investigation into his demise, though the bureau clarified this was not prompted by recent discoveries.
"By bringing in an independent body for a fresh look, we aim to deliver a authoritative and open assessment that could provide reassurance to his loved ones and the public," local Sheriff Michael Buglione commented.
He further noted that Thompson had had a "deep effect" on his community and further afield.
His Legacy and Career
Thompson was a celebrated author and reporter who wrote for numerous publications like Rolling Stone, Playboy, and ESPN.
His seminal 1971 book, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas - a semi-autobiographical story about the counterculture of the 1960s - was later adapted into a film with Johnny Depp.
Other books he penned include Hells Angels and Generation of Swine.
Details of the Investigation
Colorado officials indicated they did not have a time frame for the investigation into Thompson's death and would provide an update when finished.
Thompson died of a gunshot he administered while talking on the phone with his wife.
His son subsequently discovered his remains in the cooking area, according to media accounts.
An official inquiry into his death found no evidence of suspicious circumstances.
