HOLLYWOOD - Heath Ledger's publicist has spoken out about the tragic actor's death, branding his passing a "shocking accident."
The Brokeback Mountain star, 28, was found lying face down and naked on his bed in his New York apartment on Tuesday afternoon.
Police believe his death is drug-related, as sleeping pills were found strewn around his home.
However, it is unknown whether Ledger intended to commit suicide, and an autopsy to determine the cause of death is scheduled for Wednesday.
But the actor's representative, Mara Buxbaum, doesn't believe Ledger would purposely end his life, and has called for the media to respect his family's privacy.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Buxbaum says, "We are deeply saddened and shocked by this accident.
"This is an extremely difficult time for his loved ones. We're asking the media to please respect the family's privacy and avoid speculation until the facts are known."
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