Entertainment | Celebrity
Coroner rules Don Cornelius' death a suicide
Investigators awai results of toxicology tests before issuing a final report
- AP
- Published: 11:40 February 8, 2012
- Image Credit: AP
- Don Cornelius, creator of the long-running TV dance show "Soul Train," died on February 8, 2012 at his home in Los Angeles, police said. He was 75.
Los Angeles: Coroner's officials on Tuesday ruled Don Cornelius' death a suicide, nearly a week after the "Soul Train" creator and host killed himself with a gunshot to the head.
The agency made the determination after conducting an autopsy on Cornelius' body Friday. Investigators are still awaiting the results of toxicology tests before issuing a final report.
Police quickly ruled out foul play after responding to Cornelius' Mulholland Drive home early Wednesday morning. His son had alerted authorities after receiving a call from his father.
Cornelius, 75, started Soul Train in 1970 and it became one of the longest-running syndicated shows in history, introducing audiences to many top music acts and providing a never-before-seen TV platform for black culture.
The popular host was honoured on Saturday in Harlem with a lively celebration in tribute to Cornelius and the wide-ranging influence of his show.
His son, Tony Cornelius, released a statement last week asking for privacy and thanking fans.
"We thank all the well-wishers and the fans who have supported the Soul Train legacy. Love, Peace and Soul," the statement read, incorporating his father's famous sign-off from the show.
More from Celebrity
More from Arts & Entertainment
Entertainment Editor's choice
-
Rowdy Rathore bunch: Private moments
Rowdy Rathore leads Akshay, Sonakshi and director Prabhu Deva visit the Gulf News office
-
Jennifer Aniston's love dilemma
As Justin cools off on their romance, Jen's badboy ex, John Mayer tells the star, 'I want you back'
-
Parineeti Chopra reveals her IIFA plan
Parineeti Chopra is armed with a fool-proof plan before she heads to Singapore
