Authorities Reopen Review of Hunter S. Thompson’s 2005 Death

October 03, 2025 – USA – 

Investigators in Colorado have launched a review of the death of journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson, whose 2005 passing was previously ruled a suicide.

The review was requested by Anita Thompson, his widow, who conveyed growing doubts about the original findings. While authorities emphasize they have found no new evidence indicating foul play, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is re-examining the case at the behest of the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Michael Buglione has framed the review as an effort to bring clarity, saying the move responds to lingering questions raised by friends or relatives of Thompson. The original investigation concluded that Thompson died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at his home in Woody Creek, Colorado.

Anita Thompson’s renewed scrutiny reportedly stems from conversations she’s had over recent months and disclosures from acquaintances that led her to ask for a fresh look. The CBI has confirmed the review is underway, though no completion timeline has been announced.

Officials have clarified that the review will not include reexamination of Thompson’s remains, which were cremated and, as per his wishes, launched from a cannon following his death. Buglione has stated that if the CBI uncovers inconsistencies relative to the original 2005 investigation, the case may be reopened.

Over two decades after his passing, the decision to revisit Thompson’s death underscores its enduring complexity—and the unsettled questions that still linger around a writer who carved his legacy in raw, unfiltered journalism.

Reference – 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-10-03/hunter-s-thompson-death-case-review/105845274

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgrqpqe81qjo