Michael Jackson's body released to family as funeral planning begins

The Los Angeles County coroner's office has released the body of Michael Jackson to a mortuary as his family finalized plans for a funeral. 

The office completed an autopsy of the singer Friday, but listed the cause of death as “deferred” until more tests are done.

Los Angeles Police Department sources said officials have been talking to the Jackson family about plans for a memorial, which is likely to take place in the L.A. area. The LAPD is involved in the planning because it's likely to be mobbed by fans.

Coroner’s spokesman Craig Harvey said that there is no evidence of foul play or “exterior trauma” but that more toxicology and other tests will take several weeks. 

Harvey provided few other details about the autopsy, including what drugs were found in Jackson's body.

 “We know he was taking some prescription medications,” Harvey told reporters.

Jackson was stricken Thursday at his Holmby Hills home and died of what his brother Jermaine Jackson said was cardiac arrest.

-- Andrew Blankstein and Rong-Gong Lin II

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Photos: Michael Jackson, 1958-2009

Photos: Fans grieve worldwide

 

Video: Celebrating Michael Jackson's legacy

Interactive map: See significant sites in the life and death of Michael Jackson, including Neverland Ranch and his boyhood home in Gary, Indiana.

Comments

[chandler]

i looove michael jackson i was so sad i had to dring three cream soada's just to remember him and get over it i will never forget you michael jackson R.I.P michael jackson i love your thriller song and beat it my friends and i love you and i will always skateboard to your songs and never forget you best king of pop you rule may god bless you you are safe in heaven and when the news came up that you died i was so sad and i couldn't stop crying the volunteers at my heal film camp could not calm me down bless your family and hope they are doing okay miss you michael jackson

[Angels2WatchU]

I remember Michael as a little boy, he starred with his brothers the Jackson Five . I commit to memory thinking how much finesse and stage presence he had. I remember this after watching him on the Ed Sullivan Show. All I have to say, "I cared about you Michael and your plight. Rest in Peace, Saccharine Cherub and May Your Existence In The Master's Sovereignty Bring you the Solace You Merit. The Planet Will Never Forget You."

[Lydia]

I cant belive MJ is dead, I loved his music and i really liked him as a person. i send my love and support for his family This must have been a shock. I was Looking forward to going to see him in concert and hopefully there will be some kind of concert on to remind people of his music as it is unforgettable. My love and support is sent. Lydia x