Decades Ago, Hunter S. Thompson’s Death Was Ruled a Suicide. Now, His Death is Being Reexamined

What’s happening now

October 2, 2025: More than 20 years after his death was officially ruled a suicide, investigators in Colorado are reexamining the case of legendary writer Hunter S. Thompson, best known for Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and his “gonzo” journalism style.

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office has referred the 2005 case to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at the request of Thompson’s widow, Anita Thompson. Officials emphasize there is no new evidence of foul play at this time, but the move is aimed at addressing lingering questions and providing an independent, transparent review.

The original case

Thompson died on February 20, 2005, at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado. He was 67 years old. His death was ruled a suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

At the time, Anita Thompson said that her husband had openly discussed suicide in the months leading up to his death, including his reasons and timing, explaining that he felt he was at a “peak” in life.

In keeping with his wishes, his remains were cremated and later shot from a cannon in a fireworks ceremony, meaning no forensic reexamination of his body is possible today.

Why the renewed focus

Anita Thompson recently voiced renewed doubts about the circumstances of her husband’s death, leading her to request an outside review. Authorities stress that the goal of the review is not necessarily to overturn the past ruling but to ensure transparency and closure.

The review will reassess the original investigative process, the evidence gathered, and the conclusions reached. While no physical evidence is expected to resurface, the process could shed light on previously overlooked details or testimony.

Larger implications

Hunter S. Thompson remains an enduring cultural figure whose work shaped both literature and journalism. Revisiting the circumstances of his death is not just a legal review but also a cultural moment, prompting reflection on how the legacies of iconic figures are remembered and reinterpreted.

Even if the suicide ruling stands, the very act of reopening the case acknowledges the deep public interest and lingering uncertainty surrounding Thompson’s final chapter.