Dennis Kucinich's brother found dead

Coroner's office says no sign of foul play

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updated 4:05 p.m. ET Dec. 19, 2007

CLEVELAND - The youngest brother of Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich was found dead at his home Wednesday.

Perry Kucinich, 52, was found face down by another brother, Larry, at about 9 a.m., said Powell Caesar, a spokesman for the Cuyahoga County Coroner's office.

There were no signs of foul play, Caesar said. An autopsy was being performed Wednesday to determine the cause of death.

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Larry Kucinich had taken his brother shopping Tuesday and then took him home but couldn't get an answer when he tried calling him Wednesday, Caesar said.

Dennis Kucinich took a flight from Washington to Cleveland after learning of the death and was not immediately available for comment, said his office press secretary, Natalie Laber.

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"He was very close to Perry and he's taking this very hard," Laber said.

Kucinich, 61, is a six-term congressman from Ohio who is making his second bid for his party's nomination; he sought the nod in 2004. He registers in low single digits in polls and has raised little money for what is considered another long-shot run. Kucinich, who is known for his liberal views, has attracted a devoted following.

A Democratic rival, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, offered his condolences to Kucinich and his family. "Barbara and I will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers," Richardson said in a statement.

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