THE BEAST

Tom Petty's death is being investigated by the Los Angeles County coroner's department. Petty died suddenly on Monday night (October 2) at UCLA Medical Center, one day after suffering cardiac arrest at his Malibu home. The Associated Press reported: "Department spokesman Ed Winter says an autopsy was conducted Tuesday but that further examination is needed to determine the exact cause of death... No foul play is suspected, but Winter says the coroner investigates all deaths where the deceased hadn't seen a doctor in six months. Winter says results of toxicology screening — to determine whether Petty had any drugs in his system — could take several weeks." There has been no word from Petty's family or management regarding a funeral or public memorial.

Petty wrapped his fortieth-anniversary tour with THE HEARTBREAKERS on September 25 at Los Angeles's Hollywood Bowl.

Petty's friend and collaborator Bob Dylan issued a statement to Rolling Stone, saying: "It's shocking, crushing news. I thought the world of Tom. He was great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I'll never forget him."

TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2002.

In 2005, Petty was awarded Billboard's Century Award, the organization's highest honor for creative achievement.

2016 saw Petty's induction into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame. Via Blabbermouth