People News

Suicide suspected after woman found dead near home of Paula Abdul

Nov 13, 2008, 3:00 GMT

Idol suicide? - Paula Abdul - sad news © PRN / PR Photos

   Los Angeles - A woman who once tried to become a contestant on American Idol was found dead outside the home of Paula Abdul, one of the talent show's judges, in a case police are investigating as a possible suicide, the Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday.

   The woman was identified as Paula Goodspeed, 30, who auditioned for the show in 2005. She identified Abdul as her idol and bore a remarkable resemblance to her.

   'We are investigating the case as a possible suicide,' said Ed Winter, a spokesman for the coroner's office. The cause of death will not be determined until after toxicology tests are completed, he added.

   Jeff Ballard, a representative for Abdul, told celebrity TV show 'Entertainment Tonight' that Abdul was 'shocked and saddened' by the woman's death. Ballard said Abdul and her staff have known about the woman for several years.