Hunter S Thompson's death to be reviewed after widow's request, Colorado officials say

The death of journalist and author Hunter S Thompson will be reviewed by Colorado officials at the request of his widow, the state's bureau of investigation has announced.

Thompson, best known for his 1971 novel Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas, died aged 67 on 20 February 2005.

The original investigation concluded the death was from an allegedly self-inflicted gunshot wound and was suicide.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said Anita Thompson had requested a case review into her husband's death, and that it is being carried out to provide an independent perspective on the investigation.

While Sheriff Michael Buglione said there is no new evidence suggesting foul play, "we understand the profound impact Hunter S Thompson had on this community and beyond".

He added: "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 CBI added its review would take "an unspecified amount of time".

Born in 1937, Thompson was regarded as a pioneer in the 1960s New Journalism movement, and wrote the 1967 book Hell's Angels about the notorious motorcycle gang after spending more than a year living and riding with them.

Famous for his first-person narratives, Thompson's works inspired a style of reporting called Gonzo journalism - a subjective and more personal style of news writing.

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Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas was adapted into a film, starring Johnny Depp - a friend of Thompson's - and Benicio Del Toro, in 1998.

Sky News has contacted The Gonzo Foundation, a non-profit group founded by Ms Thompson to promote literature, journalism and political activism, for comment.

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK

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