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Ledger's Death Doesn't Look Like Suicide
Multiple sources in the NYPD tell TMZ, although it's too early to know, it's looking like Heath Ledger's death was accidental and not suicide.
There have been numerous reports suggesting that Ledger took his own life by ingesting a boatload of pills. Contrary to initial reports, the pills that were "scattered" around Ledger's apartment were actually in containers. We're told the containers were not littering the apartment. Rather, some were in the medicine cabinet and some in other rooms. As we reported, one container was on Ledger's nightstand. Cops found sleeping pills and an anti-anxiety drug in the bedroom.
A rep for the family tells TMZ that detectives have been in touch with Ledger's next of kin and the cops told them that so far there is no evidence suggesting suicide. Of course, until the toxicology reports come in, no one knows for sure.
A well-connected source in the NYPD told us this morning the "operating theory" right now within the department is that it was an accidental death, not suicide.
It's unclear if Ledger's health was a factor. As we first reported, he had pneumonia at the time of his death.
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Heath's ouders en zus geven een verklaring
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We, Heath's family, confirm, the very tragic, untimely and accidental passing of our dearly loved son, brother and doting father of Matilda. He was found peacefully asleep in his New York apartment by his housekeeper at 3:30 p.m. U.S. time.
We would like to thank our friends and everyone around the world for their well wishes and kind thoughts at this time. Heath has touched so many people on so many different levels during his short life but few had the pleasure of truly knowing him.
He was a down to earth, generous, kind-hearted, life-loving and selfless individual who was extremely inspirational to many. Please now respect our families need to grieve and come to terms with our loss privately.
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Heath Ledger’s Autopsy Inconclusive
Wednesday's autopsy was unable to determine how Heath Ledger died, say officials. Additional tests and more time are required.
"The autopsy was inconclusive," New York City Medical Examiner spokeswoman Ellen Borakove tells PEOPLE. "We have to do further testing including toxicology and tissue testing. Neither cause of death or manner of death has been concluded. We expect additional results in 10 days to two weeks."
The 28-year-old star's body was found in the bedroom of his downtown New York City apartment, with prescription sleeping medication nearby.
Another medical-examiner's office spokeswoman, Grace Brugess, also told PEOPLE on Wednesday that Ledger's body is ready to be claimed by the family, which, she said, is still working on funeral arrangements.
Ledger had pneumonia at the time of his death, PEOPLE has confirmed.
Pneumonia Ruled Out
Yet Michael Baden, a prominent forensic pathologist not involved with the investigation, tells PEOPLE that if the pneumonia had been the cause of the actor's death, that would have been evident in Wednesday's initial results, given that it is "readily identifiable at the time of autopsy, because the lungs, instead of being filled with air, are filled with fluid, and we die from pneumonia because we can't breathe."
He notes: "I would assume under the circumstances that if he'd die of pneumonia that would be clearly stated, because of concerns from the family."
As for the meaning of "inconclusive," Baden said, "My interpretation means they didn't find a proper cause of death. That kind of rules out the natural causes, such as a brain hemorrhage, pneumonia or a cardiac abnormality that is common in that age group. That leaves drug overdose as the most likely cause of death."
He adds, "That still needs an interpretation as to intentional or unintentional, but that's done by gathering information about his mental health and his recreational activities by interviewing physicians, neighbors, friends and family."
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Michelle Williams 'Devastated' by Heath's Death
Michelle Williams was on location in Sweden, believed to be with 2-year-old daughter Matilda, when she got the news: Heath Ledger was found dead in New York at age 28.
"She's devastated," says a source close to the 27-year-old actress.
Although their three-year relationship didn't last, Williams and Ledger could always agree that their daughter comes first.
"He was absolutely in love with his daughter," says another source. "And he really liked what he did [acting]. He spoiled [Matilda] rotten. He was playful and very funny with her."
The source adds: "I can't believe Matilda is going to grow up without a dad, without knowing her father. And that Michelle will have to deal with having a daughter who's lost her father. She's a survivor. She'll make it, but it's going to be hard. Her first concern is going to be Matilda."