At a Glance
- Colorado investigators confirm Hunter S. Thompson’s 2005 death was suicide.
- A 2025 review requested by his widow found no new evidence.
- The original 2005 investigation remains unchanged.
Why it matters: The confirmation offers closure for Thompson’s family and the public.
Hunter S. Thompson, the legendary journalist and author known for pioneering gonzo journalism, died in his Woody Creek, Colorado, home on February 20, 2005. On January 23, 2026, officials from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) confirmed that his death was a suicide, following a review that began in July 2025 at the request of the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).
Background
Hunter S. Thompson was 67 when he passed away. His widow, Anita Thompson, had long requested a fresh look at the original 2005 investigation. In October 2025, the Colorado Sun reported that Anita had heard from friends and relatives that raised questions about the initial findings. The request was formally made by the PCSO, which had been the lead agency in the original case.
Review Process
The CBI’s review involved:
- Re-examining PCSO law-enforcement records and autopsy reports.
- Conducting new scene examinations.
- Interviewing key witnesses, including:
- Anita Thompson
- Hunter’s son, Juan Thompson
- Former daughter-in-law, Jennifer Thompson
- Original lead investigator, Ron Ryan
- Pitkin County coroner, Dr. Steven Ayers
- Former Pitkin County Sheriff, Joe DiSalvo
The majority of the original physical evidence had been disposed of by the PCSO in accordance with non-criminal case retention schedules, a fact noted in a January 8 statement. Because of this, the review relied heavily on documentary evidence and witness testimony.
Findings
The CBI’s statement released on January 23 confirmed that:
- Hunter S. Thompson’s death was a suicide.
- No new facts, physical evidence, or circumstances emerged that would alter the conclusion of the 2005 investigation.
“We understand the profound impact Hunter S. Thompson had on this community and beyond,” said Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione in a September 2025 statement. “By bringing in an outside agency for a fresh look, we hope to provide a definitive and transparent review that may offer peace of mind to his family and the public.”
The review reaffirmed the original findings, providing reassurance and clarity to the Thompson family and the public.
Family Perspective
Anita Thompson’s request stemmed from concerns raised by friends and relatives. In a January 18 New York Times story, some family members, including Juan, noted that Hunter had shown signs that he “planned to take his own life.” On the weekend of his death, he gave away gifts and insisted on watching The Maltese Falcon with his grandson, Will. Former Sheriff Joe DiSalvo also noted that “Hunter talked about suicide.”
Despite these personal insights, the CBI found no new evidence that would contradict the suicide conclusion. The family’s request was handled with sensitivity and transparency.
Thompson’s Legacy
Hunter S. Thompson’s influence on journalism is enduring. His 1971 book, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, remains a cultural touchstone and was adapted into a film in 1998 starring Johnny Depp and Benicio del Toro. His style, characterized by the insertion of the reporter into the narrative, has shaped generations of writers.
The confirmation of his death as suicide does not diminish his contributions. Instead, it provides a final chapter to the story of a man who pushed the boundaries of reporting and storytelling.
Key Takeaways
- The CBI confirmed Thompson’s death was a suicide.
- A comprehensive review in 2025 found no new evidence.
- The original 2005 investigation remains the definitive record.
- The review offered closure for the Thompson family and the public.
The case illustrates the importance of revisiting historical investigations when new concerns arise, ensuring that the record remains accurate and that families receive the clarity they seek.
