LAPD: 'Coroner has taken Jackson body'

The Los Angeles Police Department has released its first statement following the death of Michael Jackson.

The 50-year-old singer was pronounced dead at UCLA Medical Centre last night after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest. An autopsy will be performed later today.

Speaking from outside the hospital, the officer leading the investigation said: "Currently, the LA County Coroner's Office is taking possession of Mr Jackson's body. They will handle any other enquiries into the type of death.

"I have no further information than what I have given you."

He went on to play down reports that Jackson's death could be suspicious, saying: "The LAPD handles death investigations every day. The robbery and homicide unit was assigned to this because of the high-profile nature of the case.

"Don't read anything into it as relating to my team being here. As the fact of you all being here shows, the chief said that we should handle this investigation."