The Prodigy: Keith Flint’s Death Can’t Be Ruled a Suicide, Coroner Reports

An open conclusion has been recorded by the investigating coroner in regard to the death of Keith Flint, the Prodigy singer who died by hanging in March. Despite the band describing the musician as having "took his own life" in their confirmation of the death, coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said Wednesday (May 8) that the circumstances gave insufficient evidence for it to be conclusively deemed a suicide.

The report was noted by the Halstead Gazette — a publication with headquarters less than 10 miles from where Flint was found dead in his home in Essex, England, March 4 — and echoed by The Guardian.

The Prodigy vocalist and dancer had unspecified amounts of alcohol, cocaine and codeine in his system at the time of his death, the coroner revealed. But, by imploring the burden of proof, the official said suicide can't be assumed.

"I have considered suicide but I didn’t find there was sufficient evidence for that," Beasley-Murray explained. "Was he larking around and it all went horribly wrong? On the balance of probabilities, I am going to record an open verdict."

In a statement reproduced by the NME, Beasley-Murray, who is the Senior Coroner for Essex, further defended the findings: "I would have to have found that … Mr. Flint formed the idea and took a deliberate action knowing it would result in his death. Having regard to all the circumstances I don’t find that there’s enough evidence for that."

On Tuesday (May 7), the Prodigy shared solemn words about Flint's death and the importance of mental health on Twitter before offering a link to the Samaritans' and other support groups' websites. "It has been a tough time for everyone over the last few weeks since Keef's passing," the message began. "If you are struggling with depression, addiction or the impact of suicide, please do not suffer in silence." See the posts below.

Mental health struggles affect everyone. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free and confidential help and can be reached at 1-800-273-8255.

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