By Ethan Morgan

Copyright hoodline

Over two decades after the death of Hunter S. Thompson, a revered journalist and author, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is set to conduct a case review into the circumstances surrounding his passing. Thompson, who left an indelible mark on both journalism and popular culture with his unique brand of gonzo journalism, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot in 2005 at his Woody Creek home. According to CBS News, the review comes at the request of Thompson’s widow, Anita, with no new evidence suggesting foul play. Nevertheless, the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office hopes to provide a definitive and transparent review in response to requests from Thompson’s family and public questions lingering even after all these years.

The Pitkin County Sheriff, Michael Buglione, has expressed continued confidence that the initial investigation’s conclusion of suicide will stand, though he acknowledges the importance of offering Anita Thompson and the wider community peace of mind. Buglione remarked, “We understand the profound impact Hunter S. Thompson had on this community and beyond,” in a statement obtained by CBS News. Despite this confidence, the Sheriff’s Office has stepped back to allow the CBI to independently proceed with the case review. The timeline for the CBI’s review remains undefined, leaving those anticipating results to wait for further updates.

Anita Thompson triggered the renewed investigation due to undisclosed concerns voiced by friends and possible relatives. Sheriff Buglione disclosed to reporters that after hearing Anita’s concerns, he determined he was not the best person to sufficiently delve into those claims, instead suggesting the CBI’s involvement. “I said, ‘look, you’re talking to the wrong guy,'” Buglione told The Colorado Sun. This led to a formal review initiation by the CBI around August after months of consideration by Anita Thompson.

Thompson’s unmistakable legacy looms large not only due to his journalistic exploits but also for his place within the fabric of Pitkin County, where he once ran for sheriff. His death was felt deeply by a community that remembered him as much for his political attempts as for his literary contributions. A figure so central to the county’s culture, any effort to more completely close the chapter of his passing is seen as a necessary act, albeit belated by some critics. Pitkin County Sheriff Buglione reflected this sentiment, stressing the importance of transparency, as he told The Colorado Sun, “I would do it for anybody in Pitkin County who lost a loved one and was either getting different information or found something out.”