Coroner rules Don Cornelius' death a suicide

Coroner's officials on Tuesday ruled Don Cornelius' death a suicide, nearly a week after the "Soul Train" creator and host killed himself with a gunshot to the head.The agency made the determination after conducting an autopsy on Cornelius' body Friday.  Investigators are still awaiting the results of toxicology tests before issuing a final report.

Police quickly ruled out foul play after responding to Cornelius' Mulholland Drive home early Wednesday morning. His son had alerted authorities after receiving a call from his father.
Cornelius, 75, started Soul Train in 1970 and it became one of the longest-running syndicated shows in history, introducing audiences to many top music acts and providing a never-before-seen TV platform for black culture.

The popular host was honoured on Saturday in Harlem with a lively celebration in tribute to Cornelius and the wide-ranging influence of his show.His son, Tony Cornelius, released a statement last week asking for privacy and thanking fans."We thank all the well-wishers and the fans who have supported the Soul Train legacy. Love, Peace and Soul," the statement read, incorporating his father's famous sign-off from the show.

source:gulfnews

TV Host Don Cornelius dead at 75!

One of Don Cornelius’ sons was the one who made the 911 call after he had shot himself in the head this morning. At 4am this morning the paramedics arrived and tried to save his life but unfortunately he was announced dead at the hospital.

The “Soul Train” creator, Don Cornelius appears to not have left a suicide note. But, sources are saying he had been suffering from an illness for years and they are guessing that the pain just became unbearable for him to handle.

Don Cornelius ex-wife whom he hated is probably one who is getting the most out of his death. He dies with two life insurance policies that held hundreds of thousands of dollars and she will be the one getting every last cent of the money.

The breakup between Viktoria Chapman Cornelius was brutal. Don was convicted on domestic abuse charges and he even claims that Viktoria pepper sprayed him numerous times. However, Don finalized their divorce in 2009 stating that he was 72 years old and he has health issues and he at least wants to have his divorce finalized before he dies. However, by doing that he also had to make Viktoria the beneficiary of both his life insurance policies which leaves her with approximately $ 300,000.

Don Cornelius and Ex-Wife Victoria Cornelius