Editor's note: The following was received late Monday. For background, read here ("Marcus Hunt, businessman and civic leader, dead at 36," June 24, 2008) and here ("Marcus Hunt autopsy complete but cause of death still pending," June 26, 2008) and here ("Friends, family remember Marcus Hunt’s love, passion, commitment," June 30, 2008).
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TO: The El Paso Community and Local Press Members
FROM: Woody and Gayle Hunt
SUBJECT: Statement Regarding Marcus Hunt
DATE: July 14, 2008
As previously reported by the El Paso media, our beloved son, Marcus, died suddenly and unexpectedly in our family vacation home in California. His death has shocked and devastated us beyond words, and our entire family is mourning the loss of Marcus - an exceptional son, brother, husband, and father.
We are still awaiting the official results from the San Diego Medical Examiner’s office regarding this tragedy. However, earlier this evening, the Medical Examiner’s office informed the family that Marcus died of an accidental drug overdose. They also told us that there was no evidence of chronic drug use. This overdose may have been in combination with six prescribed medications for bipolar disorder and for severe pain due to five herniated discs in his back and neck.
Since Marcus was sixteen years old, he suffered from bipolar disease, a serious mental health condition that affects millions of Americans. He was under continuous treatment to stabilize the effects of this disorder. Many medical journals indicate that up to 60% of bipolar patients resort to drug and/or alcohol use as self medication to ease the struggles that come with this debilitating mental illness. We now know, tragically, that our son lost his battle against bipolar disorder in a way that is all too prevalent for those who suffer from it.
We will always be very proud of Marcus’ accomplishments and dedication to his work and the city he loved. We are especially proud of his love and devotion to us, his family, and for the wonderful husband and father he had become.
This is a very difficult period for all of us as we mourn the loss of our son and seek closure to this horrible tragedy in our lives. Please know that we deeply appreciate the outpouring of support from the community. The family will make no further public comments. We ask you to respect this privacy – most importantly for his two small daughters, unborn son, and his wife. Thank you for your understanding.
