Robin Williams
Tributes for the late Robin Williams have poured out from around the world Reuters

Investigators probing the death of comedian and Oscar-winning actor Robin Williams have said the 63-year-old took his life at his home in Tiburon, California.

Initial reports suggest Williams died of asphyxiation by hanging, according to Marin County assistant deputy chief coroner lieutenant Keith Boyd.

"Mr Williams' personal assistant became concerned at approximately 11.45am when he failed to respond to knocks on his bedroom door," Boyd told reporters at a press conference.

The legendary actor was last seen by his wife, Susan Schneider, late on Sunday 10 August. She left home the next morning assuming her husband was asleep.

But the comedian was found dead by his personal assistant a little more than an hour later, after he failed to answer knocks on the door.

"I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings," Schneider said in a statement following Williams' death.

"I am utterly heartbroken. It is our hope the focus will not be on Robin's death but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions."

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