Actor James Ransone Dies by Suicide at 46

James Ransone, the actor best known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series The Wire, died by suicide Friday in Los Angeles. He was 46.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office ruled the death a suicide by hanging. Police responded to a call at Ransone's residence that day, conducted a death investigation and found no evidence of foul play. His body has since been released to the family, according to records from the office. The news was first reported publicly Sunday.

Ransone, born in Baltimore, rose to prominence in 2003 with his portrayal of Ziggy Sobotka, the erratic son of a dockworkers' union leader, in all 12 episodes of The Wire's second season. The series, which aired from 2002 to 2008, explored corruption and crime in Baltimore and featured actors including Dominic West, Idris Elba and Wendell Pierce. Critics praised Ransone's performance for capturing the character's chaotic energy.

He became a familiar face in HBO productions, playing Corporal Josh Ray Person in the 2008 miniseries Generation Kill and Nick Duwall in the 2010-2013 drama Treme, where he appeared in 10 episodes. His television work also included recurring roles in How to Make It in...