A Sheriff’s Department Reopens Investigation Into Death Of ‘West Side Story’ Star Natalie Wood

The investigation into the death of “West Side Story” star Natalie Wood has been reopened nearly 30 years after her death.

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department announced the news on Thursday afternoon, just a little less than two weeks before the 30th anniversary of the actress’ death.

“On November 29, 1981, Natalie Wood Wagner drowned while boating off the Isthmus of Catalina Island. At the time, the drowning was investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office. The drowning was ruled an accident,” a release from the LASD to Access Hollywood read.

“Recently Sheriff’s Homicide Investigators were contacted by persons who stated they had additional information about the Natalie Wood Wagner drowning. Due to the additional information, Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau has decided to take another look at the case,” the release continued.

Wood, the star of films including the James Dean vehicle “Rebel Without A Cause” and “Miracle on 34th Street,” died at the age of 43, leaving behind her husband – Robert Wagner – and two children.

The actress’ death due to drowning occurred during a stay on her yacht with husband Robert, and actor Christopher Walken.‪

On Thursday evening, a rep for the Wagner family issued a statement to NBC News over the investigation reopening.

“Although no one in the Wagner family has heard from the LA County Sheriff’s department about this matter, they fully support the efforts of the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. and trust they will evaluate whether any new information relating to the death of Natalie Wood Wagner is valid, and that it comes from a credible source or sources other than those simply trying to profit from the 30 year anniversary of her tragic death,” the statement read.

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