Hunter S Thompson Death Review: Colorado Investigation 20 Years On
“`html
Hunter S. Thompson Death Investigation Reopened
Table of Contents
Colorado authorities are reviewing the 2005 death of journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson, known for his pioneering work in Gonzo journalism and his novel Fear and loathing in Las Vegas.
Last Updated: October 1, 2025, 16:08:50 MDT
Investigation Reopened in 2024
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) announced on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, that it was conducting a “case review” of the investigation into Thompson’s death, as reported by CBS News. This review is not prompted by any new evidence, according to the CBI.
Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione stated the goal of the review is to provide a “definitive and obvious review that may offer peace of mind to his family and the public,” according to NBC News.Buglione also emphasized Thompson’s significant impact on both his local community and the broader cultural landscape.
circumstances of Thompson’s Death
Hunter S. Thompson died on February 20, 2005, at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado, a small town north of Aspen. He was 67 years old. The cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound sustained while Thompson was on a phone call with his wife, anita Thompson.
His son, Juan Thompson, discovered his body in the kitchen, as detailed in Rolling stone. The initial investigation conducted at the time found no evidence of foul play.
Hunter S. Thompson: A Literary Legacy
Hunter S. Thompson was a highly influential writer and journalist whose career spanned decades. He contributed to numerous publications, including Rolling Stone, Playboy, and ESPN.
Thompson is best known for his 1971 novel, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream. This semi-autobiographical work, which captured the spirit of the 1960s counterculture, was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Johnny Depp in 1998. (IMDb)
Other notable books by thompson include Hells Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (1966) and Generation of Swine: Ethics in the Age of Male Entitlement (1997).
Timeline and Next Steps
February 20, 2005: Hunter S. Thompson dies by suicide at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado.
February 27, 2024: The Colorado Bureau of Investigation announces a case review of Thompson’s death.
Colorado officials have not provided a timeline for the completion of the investigation. They have stated that an update will be issued once the review is finished.