LOS ANGELES — The forensics expert hired by David Carradine’s family has concluded that the “Kung Fu” actor did not commit suicide but said that more information was needed from Thai investigators before the cause of death could be determined.
Carradine’s brothers, Keith and Robert Carradine, each read part of a prepared statement Thursday morning. In their first appearance since their older brother was found hanging in a Bangkok hotel room closet last week, they thanked supporters and asked for privacy.
“This is a devastating loss for our family and we greatly appreciate the compassion pouring in from all over the world,” Keith Carradine said.
They also released a statement by Dr. Michael Baden of New York that indicated a second autopsy determined Carradine didn’t kill himself.
“However, to reach a final determination as to the cause and the manner of death we must wait for further information from Thailand as to the scene findings and the completion of the crime laboratory and toxicology studies that are still being performed,” Baden’s statement said.
Rampant speculation about the actor’s death has swirled since a chambermaid at the luxury Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel in Bangkok discovered his body hanging in the closet of his room June 4. A Thai newspaper published a graphic photo of the death scene that police have said appears to be a leaked forensics image.
Thai police initially said they suspected Carradine’s death was a suicide but later conceded it could have been accidental. Their description — that the actor’s body was found nude, with ropes around his neck, wrist and genitals — fueled speculation that he was killed while engaging in a dangerous sex practice called autoerotic asphyxiation.
Others who knew the 72-year-old actor have said they suspect foul play was involved. Keith and Robert Carradine on Thursday urged everyone to wait until the investigation has concluded.
