Coroner rules Don Cornelius' death a suicide

FILE - This Monday, March 6, 2006 file photo shows Don Cornelius at his office in Los Angeles. Cornelius, creator of the long-running TV dance show "Soul Train," died Wednesday morning, Feb. 1, 2012 at his home in Los Angeles, police said. He was 75. Coroner's officials announced Tuesday that they had ruled Cornelius' death a suicide and that the "Soul Train" founder killed himself with a gunshot wound to the head. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

The Associated Press Updated 3:51 PM Tuesday, February 7, 2012

LOS ANGELES — 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 honored 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.

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February 07, 2012 08:48 PM EST

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