Robin Williams found dead in Marin County home

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Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Actor and comedian Robin Williams was found dead at his home in unincorporated Tiburon on Monday morning. He was 63.
Actor and comedian Robin Williams was found dead at his home in unincorporated Tiburon on Monday morning. He was 63.
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MARIN COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- The Marin County Sheriff's Office says actor Robin Williams was found dead at his home in unincorporated Tiburon on Monday morning. He was 63.

PHOTOS: Robin Williams' life and career throughout the years

Marin County Communications received a 911 call reporting a man had been found unconscious and not breathing inside his home at 11:55 a.m. The Sheriff's Office, as well as the Tiburon Fire Department and Southern Marin Fire Protection District were dispatched to the incident with emergency personnel arriving on scene at 12 p.m.

Williams was pronounced dead at 12:02 p.m. An investigation into the cause of death is currently underway by the Investigations and Coroner Divisions of the Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff's Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be suicide due to asphyxia. They are investigating and will conduct a forensic examination to determine the exact cause.

Somber mood at Robin Williams' Tiburon home

A statement from Williams' representative said the comedian had been battling severe depression, adding, "This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time."

Williams' wife, Susan Schneider, issued a statement saying in part, "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken... As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin's death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions."

By Monday evening, fans were leaving flowers and tokens outside Williams' Marin County home as well as the San Francisco house featured in the 1993 film "Mrs. Doubtfire."

Robin Williams fans gather at famous 'Mrs. Doubtfire' house

Williams first moved to the Bay Area when he was a teen and attended Redwood High School in Larkspur and later the College of Marin for theater. He also owned a home in San Francisco's Sea Cliff neighborhood.

He had a long career as a stand-up comedian and appeared in numerous film and television roles including the 1970s sitcom "Mork and Mindy," his Academy Award-winning performance in "Good Will Hunting" and nominations for "Good Morning, Vietnam," "Dead Poets Society" and "The Fisher King."

Williams also won three Golden Globes, for "Good Morning, Vietnam," "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "The Fisher King."

VIDEO: Ben Fong-Torres comments on Williams' death

The White House has released a statement on Williams' passing from President Barack Obama.

VIDEO: Bay Area comedian Brian Copeland reacts to Williams' death

San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee issued a statement saying in part, "San Francisco mourns the profound loss of Robin Williams who inspired us with his comedy and art. His legacy has had a deep and inspiring impact on our City and on our residents. Despite his success, he has never forgotten San Francisco. He was a philanthropist who gave generously, and he was a friend of the City."

Williams was a well-known fan of the San Francisco Giants. Monday evening, Giants President and CEO Larry Baer issued a statement on his passing:

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Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, issued a statement on the actor's death, saying in part, "An incredible actor and a comedic genius, Robin will always be remembered for bringing some of the world's favorite characters to life, from his zany alien on ABC's Mork & Mindy to the irascible genie in Disney's Aladdin. He was a true Disney Legend, a beloved member of our family, and he will be sorely missed."

Bay City News and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of ABC7.