LAPD Investigating Death of Coroner Tech From North Hollywood as Possible Poisoning

Authorities are investigating the death of a Los Angeles County coroner's autopsy technician to determine if foul play was involved.

Michael Cormier, 61, died about 10:30 p.m. Friday at St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank. Coroner's Assistant Chief Ed Winter declined to release other details, saying that there was a security hold on the case.

According to the Los Angeles Times, police were investigating whether Cormier died of poisoning.

"At this point, we haven't ruled out foul play," LAPD Lt. Alan Hamilton of the North Hollywood Division told The Times. "It is one of the things being considered. We are waiting for the coroner's results."

Cormier was taken to the hospital from his North Hollywood-area home, and hospital staff notified police of some concerns surrounding the cause of Cormier's death, The Times reported.

Authorities have examined Cormier's Auckland Avenue home for clues to the cause of his death, according to the newspaper.