What Are the Reported Facts About Ronnie Montrose's Death?
Ronnie Montrose, the American guitarist known for his work with the band Montrose, died on March 3, 2012. The official cause of death, as documented by the Los Angeles County Coroner, was suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The report also indicated that Montrose suffered from a long-term battle with prostate cancer and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. His death was confirmed by his family and public records, which state he was 64 years old at the time. The event occurred at his home in San Francisco, California, and was not related to any criminal activity or external factors. Rolling Stone reported the death and initial details.
Public records and news reports from 2012 confirm that Montrose's death was ruled a suicide by the coroner's office. The report listed the manner of death as suicide and the cause as a gunshot wound to the head. The toxicology report did not find any illicit drugs in his system, but noted the presence of prescription medications related to his chronic health conditions. His family released a statement acknowledging his struggles with depression and illness. The Los Angeles County Coroner's office, a public agency, maintains the official record. The Los Angeles County Coroner website provides public access to death records and reports.
What Was Ronnie Montrose's Career and Financial Background?
Ronnie Montrose was a guitarist and composer who founded the band Montrose in 1973. The band signed with Warner Bros. Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1973, which went on to achieve platinum certification. He later formed the band Gamma and worked as a session musician for artists like Edgar Winter and Van Morrison. His career spanned over four decades, and he was inducted into the Guitarist Hall of Fame. Forbes covered his career and legacy.
Montrose's primary source of income was music royalties, touring, and session work. His net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $3 million, based on album sales and royalties. He held the rights to his compositions through his own publishing company. His financial records were managed by his family and estate executors after his death. The band Montrose remains a classic rock staple, and his music continues to generate revenue through streaming and licensing. AllMusic provides a detailed biography and career overview.
What Are the Key Details in the Official Death Record?
The official death certificate for Ronnie Montrose lists his full legal name as Ronald Douglas Montrose. The document confirms his date of death as March 3, 2012, and the place of death as San Francisco, California. The cause of death is listed as a gunshot wound, and the manner is suicide. The certificate also notes his occupation as a musician and lists his immediate family members. Public access to the death certificate is available through the California Department of Public Health. The California Department of Public Health manages vital records.
Following his death, the Montrose estate was handled by his family, with no public probate disputes reported. His music catalog and royalties were managed by his heirs. The estate did not file for bankruptcy, and his