Fashion icon Alexander McQueen hanged himself in wardrobe

FASHION designer Alexander McQueen hanged himself in his wardrobe after leaving a note.

Westminster Coroner's Court was told yesterday that the 40-year-old was found at his 1 million flat in Green Street, Mayfair, London, last Thursday.

A post-mortem examination found he died as a result of asphyxiation and hanging.

The inquest heard that McQueen's body was identified by his sister, Janet McQueen, of Hornchurch, Essex, on the day of his death.

The designer killed himself on the eve of the funeral of his mother, Joyce.

Coroner's officer Lynda Martindill said: "At about 10:30am last Thursday, 11 February, a man was found hanging in his wardrobe at Flat 1, Green Street, London, W1.

"On Monday, 15 February, he was identified as Lee Alexander McQueen, aged 40, born 17/3/69 in Lewisham, south-east London.

"He was a single man, a fashion designer."

Ms Martindill added that a post-mortem examination on Monday found two causes of death: asphyxia and hanging.

She said: "No analysis or post-mortem report is yet available."

Detective Inspector Paul Armstrong, of Charing Cross CID, told the inquest there were no suspicious circumstances.

He brought a note found at the scene and it was handed to the coroner for further examination.

Jonathan Coad, representing the McQueen family, was at the inquest but made no comment.

Coroner Dr Paul Knapman adjourned the inquest until Wednesday, 28 April.