Andrew Koenig's Body Found in Vancouver's Stanley Park

Actor Andrew Koenig, 41, was found dead in Vancouver's Stanley Park Thursday evening by family and friends who conducted their own search of the area. The park was one of his favorite places.

In a press conference Thursday, Walter Koenig said, "Our son took his own life. He was obviously in a lot of pain."

According to Vancouver police, Koenig's body was discovered "in a densely wooded area." Koenig's father, Walter Koenig, was among those searching for Andrew in the park.

The elder Koenig said of depression, "Don't ignore it; don't rationalize it...Extend a hand."

Prior to his trip to Vancouver on February 10, Andrew Koenig reportedly sold some of his belongings and moved out of his apartment in Venice, California. He then went to Vancouver to visit friends. When he didn't board the plane back to California, his family began to worry.

In a letter from Andrew to his parents postmarked February 15, Walker Koenig said his son sounded "despondent." He also said in an interview with the Vancouver Sun earlier in the week that his son was was "not in a good frame of mind when he called us. He was depressed."

Andrew Koenig is best known for his role as Richard "Boner" Stabone, in the hit 1980's sitcom Growing Pains. In 1993, he had a minor role in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as Tumak in the episode "Sanctuary."

According to the Vancouver Sun, Koenig had a long history of depression and had not taken his anti-depressant medications for more than a year.

Law enforcement officials are not yet disclosing the details such as time and manner of death due to the sensitivities surrounding the investigation and for respect for Koenig's family, though Vancouver police Constable Jana McGuinness said no weapons were involved.

The B.C. Coroners Service is investigating the actor's death.

The actor's father is planning a remembrance book comprised of emails received from fans.

Andrew Koenig, born Joshua Andrew Koenig, was born August 17, 1968 in Los Angeles to Walter and Judy Koenig.

If you are thinking about suicide, there are organizations out there to turn to for help. The National Suicide Prevention Life Line (1-800-273-8255) is a free, 24 hour hotline available to those in a suicidal crisis or suffering from emotional distress. The call is confidential and is composed of 140 crisis networks nationwide. You may also call your local mental health office as they all have a crisis line available to you when you need help.

Source:
The Vancouver Sun
USA Today