LONDON (AP) — Sinéad O’Connor, the renowned Irish singer-songwriter known for her pop hits in the ’80s and ’90s, died of natural causes, according to a statement from a London coroner’s office on Tuesday. The announcement put to rest the speculation among her fans that the artist may have died by suicide or drug overdose after she was found unresponsive in a London home in July.
O’Connor captivated audiences with her distinctive voice and powerful performances, but she was also recognized for her activism and advocacy on issues such as mental health, abortion, and the sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic Church. Tragically, her death at the age of 56 followed the suicide of her teenage son, Shane, in early 2022, which resulted in her hospitalization due to self-harm threats.
In the days leading up to her passing, O’Connor took to social media to share her excitement about almost completing her latest album and her plans for an upcoming tour. However, the exact cause of her death remains unclear. The coroner’s ruling, however, has ruled out the possibility of suicide or other feared circumstances.
André Rebello, the secretary for the Coroners’ Society of England and Wales, emphasized that deaths due to natural causes are not classified as suicides or accidents. He clarified that when “natural causes” are determined, it eliminates the possibility of suicide or accidental death. Rebello emphasized that his comments were general statements and not specifically related to O’Connor’s case.
The Southwark Coroner’s Court, where the investigation into O’Connor’s death took place, did not provide any further comments regarding the matter.
Sinéad O’Connor leaves behind a lasting legacy of musical talent and a fearless voice for important causes. Her passing reminds us of the profound impact she had on both the music industry and society as a whole.
In conclusion, Sinéad O’Connor, the acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter known for her chart-topping hits, died of natural causes, according to a statement from a London coroner’s office. The ruling dismisses previous speculations of suicide or drug overdose, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding her untimely passing. O’Connor’s advocacy for mental health and her powerful voice will be remembered by fans and supporters around the world.