Police have ruled out foul play in Richard Simmons’ death.
Foul play ruled out in Richard Simmons’ death
The fitness guru was found dead in his Los Angeles home last weekend, just one day after his 76th birthday and the Los Angeles Police Department believe it was an accident.
A source told PEOPLE: “The LAPD are not pursuing the investigation as if foul play was involved at this point.”
TMZ reports that Richard fell in his bathroom the night before he died. His housekeeper reportedly urged him to seek medical attention but he refused “because he just wanted to stay home for his birthday”.
The outlet added that the housekeeper helped him back to bed but found him unresponsive on the floor the next morning.
He had reportedly been feeling dizzy before the fall.
Richard was pronounced dead at the scene.
Shortly after news of Richard’s death broke, his brother Lenny insisted he didn’t want people to be “sad” about his passing and would prefer his life to be “celebrated” instead.
He told People magazine: “I don’t want people to be sad about my brother.
“I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives. He truly cared about people. He called, wrote and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help. So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life.
“He was very excited about all of his upcoming ventures he was working on. We are in shock. Please respect the family at this difficult time.”
The wellness expert’s passing is being investigated by the LA Medical Examiner’s Office, but the city’s fire department believe it was due to natural causes.
In a statement to Entertainment Tonight, LAFD Captain Erik Scott said: “On July 13, 2024, at 9:55 AM, the LAFD responded to a Suspected Death Incident at the 1300 block of N Belfast Drive.
“Upon arrival, one rescue ambulance discovered a 76-year-old male who was pronounced deceased on-scene by firefighter/paramedics due to apparent natural causes.
“As a result, no hospital transport was necessary.”
