McQueen 'hanged' himself

An inquest hears that fashion king Alexander McQueen left...

11:26 17 February 2010

Fashion designer Alexander McQueen 'hanged' himself in his wardrobe and left a note nearby, it has been revealed.

Westminster Coroner's Court has been hearing about the death of the 40-year-old clothes icon, whose full name was Lee Alexander McQueen.

He was discovered at his £1million flat in Mayfair in London last Thursday, apparently killing himself on the eve of the funeral of his mother, Joyce. He had left several messages on his Twitter page expressing his grief.

According to the post mortem examination he died as a result of asphyxiation and hanging.

The inquest was told there were no suspicious circumstances to prompt a criminal investigation. The inquest also stated that the note found at McQueen's flat was handed to the coroner for further examination.

McQueen was widely recognised in fashion circles for his dramatic designs and technically brilliant tailoring, which saw him design clothes for numerous celebrities including Cameron Diaz and David Bowie.

Lady Gaga dedicated a song to him at the recent Brit Awards, accompanying herself acoustically on a white grand piano. Many other high profile stars have paid tribute.

Coroner Paul Knapman adjourned the inquest until April 28. The inquest has yet to rule on whether McQueen officially died by suicide, however initial reports do suggest that.