AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION Releases Statement On Death Of CHESTER BENNINGTON

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has released the following statement regarding the passing of LINKIN PARK singer Chester Bennington:

“We recently learned of the death of Chester Bennington, the lead singer of LINKIN PARK. Based on reports, we understand that Mr. Bennington died by suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offers its condolences to his family, friends, and everyone touched by Bennington and his music.

“There is never a single cause for suicide. Suicide is the result of many factors that come together such as an underlying mental health condition and access to lethal means. We must do more to prevent such tragic deaths through greater awareness of mental health issues, common risks and warning signs, and effective interventions and treatments.

“Media interested in learning more information regarding suicide, warning signs and prevention can visit our website at www.afsp.org. For insight on how to report on suicide: https://afsp.org/about-suicide/for-journalists. It is important to NOT mention method of suicide in reporting as this can lead to possible suicide contagion, or ‘copycat suicide.’

Law enforcement sources tell the site the singer hanged himself at a private residence in Palos Verdes Estates in Los Angeles county. His body was discovered Thursday just before 9 a.m.

Chester was married with 6 children from 2 wives.

The singer struggled with drugs and alcohol for years. He had said in the past he had considered committing suicide because he had been abused as a child by an older male.

After Chris Cornell died in May, Bennington wrote a heartfelt message paying tribute to the SOUNDGARDEN frontman. In the message, Bennington wrote he couldn’t imagine the world without his late friend in it.