Marilyn Monroe’s Death Revisited in New Investigation

The 100th birthday of Marilyn Monroe brings a reexamination of her 1962 death, a case still surrounded by mystery. Paul Holes, a retired cold case investigator, is exploring this landmark Hollywood incident. Holes, known for his work on the Golden State Killer case, is featured in TMZ’s “Celebrity Crime Scene: Marilyn Monroe,” airing on FOX.

The special employs artificial intelligence to recreate Monroe’s home, aiding Holes, senior crime scene analyst Alina Burroughs, and true crime reporter Kiki Monique as they delve into unanswered questions. Holes explained to Fox News Digital that Monroe’s death, attributed to an overdose believed to be a probable suicide, lacked thorough documentation.

In August 1962, Monroe was found deceased, lying nude in her bed with a phone in hand and empty pill bottles nearby, including Nembutal, a sedative. Holes noted inconsistencies in the scene, saying the arrangement of Monroe’s room and the pill bottles raised doubts.

Holes believes Monroe’s prescription treatment warrants further scrutiny. The actress struggled with insomnia and anxiety, frequently using sedatives. Reports indicate Dr. Hyman Engelberg prescribed Monroe Nembutal but denied issuing the chloral hydrate also found in her system.

On the night of her death, housekeeper Eunice Murray summoned Monroe’s psychiatrist, Dr. Ralph Greenson, who found Monroe deceased upon entering her locked room. Greenson then contacted Engelberg, who pronounced her dead. A delay of almost an hour occurred before authorities were notified.

The 1982 reopening of the investigation by the District Attorney’s Office found no sufficient evidence of criminal involvement. Yet Holes believes analyzing all perspectives is essential to understanding what transpired.

Monroe’s influence in Hollywood remains significant, with memorable performances in films like “Some Like It Hot.” However, her 1962 death continues to provoke speculation, especially involving her links to the Kennedy family. FBI scrutiny of Monroe focused on her associations with suspected Communists, though no party affiliation was proven.

Holes suggests revisiting witness accounts and exploring unreleased FBI files for possible insights. The modern investigative approach and technological tools used during the show’s production offer a comprehensive view of the original crime scene layout.

Viewers of “Celebrity Crime Scene” will encounter compelling perspectives and draw their own conclusions about Monroe’s death. Holes criticizes the LAPD’s 1962 investigation, suggesting the case should have been treated as a homicide initially. He highlights the need for more thorough procedures in cases involving high-profile individuals.