On August 11, 2014, the 63-year-old comedian was found dead in his California home. His publicist released this statement: “Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time.”
A press release issued by the Marin Country sheriff’s office on August 12 stated, “The preliminary results of the forensic examination revealed supporting physical signs that Mr. Williams life ended from asphyxia due to hanging.” Additionally, a pocket knife was found at the scene and several cuts were found on Williams’ left wrist. Toxicology tests were administered as part of the autopsy. The final report was released in November 2014 and revealed no alcohol or illegal drugs had been found in his system. Prescription medications were found, but in “therapeutic concentrations.” The coroner confirmed the results were in line with the preliminary findings.
In a statement issued by Susan Schneider on August 13, she disclosed that her late husband had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease which he had not revealed publicly. Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the nervous system that progresses over time affecting movement and speech. She also confirmed that the actor was battling depression and anxiety, and that he had maintained his sobriety.
Schneider's statement also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support following her husband's suicide and touched on the legacy he left behind: "Since his passing, all of us who loved Robin have found some solace in the tremendous outpouring of affection and admiration for him from the millions of people whose lives he touched. His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles."
In November 2014, reports surfaced that prior to his death Williams was also suffering from Lewy body dementia, a type of progressive dementia often found in people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
