Chris Cornell cause of death: Singer killed himself, medical examiners rule

'A full autopsy report has not yet been completed'

Rock star Chris Cornell took his own life, medical officials in the US have said.

The Soundgarden and Audioslave lead singer died in Detroit on Wednesday night, aged 52.

Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office said in a statement on Thursday afternoon: "The cause of death has been determined as hanging by suicide.

"A full autopsy report has not yet been completed."

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Video of Chris Cornell's last gig

Cornell's representative Brian Bumbery called the death “sudden and unexpected”.

Michael Woody, a spokesman for the Detroit Police Department, said Cornell’s body was found unresponsive in his hotel room.

The rock singer had earlier played a concert in the city's Fox Theatre that evening.

Tributes from fellow muscians poured in on Thursday. Elton John said he was "shocked and saddened". He said Cornell was "a great singer, songwriter and the loveliest man".

Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page said: "RIP Chris Cornell. Incredibly Talented. Incredibly Young. Incredibly Missed."

Cornell was one of the most lauded and respected contemporary lead singers in rock music, thanks to his charismatic energy onstage and wide vocal range.

He was a leader of the grunge movement with Seattle-based Soundgarden - with whom he gained critical and commercial acclaim - but also found success outside the band with other projects, including Audioslave, Temple of the Dog as well as with solo albums.

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Additional reporting by AP