Colorado investigators have ruled that Hunter S. Thompson, the legendary journalist and author, took his own life in February 2005. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation CBI—responsible for investigating local law enforcement misconduct—launched a sweeping audit last September. This move followed after Anita Thompson, Thompson’s widow, voiced fresh concerns.
Hunter S. Thompson, one of America’s most beloved writers, was 67 when he infamously killed himself. When my father made that bet, he was living in Aspen. He is perhaps most famous for his popularization of gonzo journalism, an innovative style of journalism that mixes objective reporting with subjective experience. Of course “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” is his most well-known. This masterpiece of a work has influenced countless books and movies, particularly with the creation of a 1998 film starring Johnny Depp.
Anita Thompson reached out to authorities with what she described as “new concerns and potential information regarding the investigation” into her husband’s death. This led to the CBI’s decision to conduct a review of the case, which ultimately reaffirmed the original findings that Thompson’s death was indeed a suicide.
Michael Buglione, the elected sheriff for the Aspen area, said he thought the first investigation, led by the state patrol, was thorough. He recognized the importance of an independent review.
“CBI’s conclusions reaffirm the original findings and, we hope, provide reassurance and clarity.” – Michael Buglione
In an emotional response to the review’s findings, Anita Thompson said, “This allows all of us who loved Hunter to move forward with a clean conscience.”
After Thompson’s death, his body was sent to the local morgue. As he’d requested, a private ceremony in Colorado honored him by distributing his ashes through a cannon blast. This very peculiar tribute was a testament to his legen—wait for it—dary personality and crazy, fun-loving way of living and reporting.
This confirmation of Thompson’s death as a suicide will provide closure for his family and friends. It shows the mental health struggles that so many of us face. The case serves as a reminder that we, as a society, must confront such questions openly and compassionately.