Chris Cornell's Wife Vicky Releases Official Statement Questioning Cause of Death

Chris Cornell‘s widow Vicky is speaking out one day after his tragic death, which has been determined to be a suicide by hanging.

The Soundgarden frontman’s wife of thirteen years and his family are questioning the medical examiner’s conclusion that Chris, 52, committed suicide just hours after performing on stage with his band at Detroit’s Fox Theatre.

In a statement letter from Cornell‘s family attorney Kirk Pasich and Vicky they say that they are “disturbed at inferences that Chris knowingly and intentionally took his life,” suggesting he may have taken an accidental overdose of anxiety medications.

“Without the results of toxicology tests, we do not know what was going on with Chris – or if any substances contributed to his demise,” the statement continues. “Chris, a recovering addict, had a prescription for Ativan and may have taken more Ativan than recommended dosages. The family believes that if Chris took his life, he did not know what he was doing, and that drugs or other substances may have affected his actions. Pasich adds that some medical literature indicates that “Ativan can cause paranoid or suicidal thoughts, slurred speech and impaired judgment.”

Click inside to read the rest of Chris Cornell family’s statement…

“Chris’s death is a loss that escapes words and has created an emptiness in my heart that will never be filled. As everyone who knew him commented, Chris was a devoted father and husband. He was my best friend. His world revolved around his family first and of course, his music, second,” Vicky said (via E!). “He flew home for Mother’s Day to spend time with our family. He flew out mid-day Wednesday, the day of the show, after spending time with the children.”

“We discussed plans for a vacation over Memorial Day and other things we wanted to do. When we spoke after the show, I noticed he was slurring his words; he was different. When he told me he may have taken an extra Ativan or two, I contacted security and asked that they check on him. What happened is inexplicable and I am hopeful that further medical reports will provide additional details. I know that he loved our children and he would not hurt them by intentionally taking his own life. The outpouring of love and support from his fans, friends and family means so much more to us than anyone can know.”

“Thank you for that,” Vicky added, “and for understanding how difficult this is for us.”