A preliminary autopsy into the death of Soundgarden and Audioslave singer Chris Cornell has revealed that he took his own life.

Cornell passed away on Wednesday night in Detroit, aged 52, with a statement made to the Associated Press by his representative Brian Bumbery labeling the death “sudden and unexpected”.

The Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office told the public it had completed the preliminary autopsy, the New York Times reports, although a full autopsy report has not been completed.

A Detroit Police spokesperson revealed in an interview that police responded to a call regarding the suicide of a man, and found him unresponsive with a band around his neck. The man’s wife had called a family friend out of concern, prompting the visit.

Cornell had spoken online when arriving in the city, and played for Soundgarden’s Detroit fans only hours earlier.

If you or somebody you care for needs help or information about depression, suicide, anxiety, or mental health issues, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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