World Champ Wrestler Benoit and Family Dead, Police Suspect Murder

Chris Benoit was a gifted athlete, believed by many to be one of the best wrestlers of his time.

Image: wrestlingking.com

(ATLANTA, Georgia) - World Wrestling took a blow today when WWE wrestler Chris Benoit, his wife and young son were found dead in their home, and their deaths are being investigated as homicides.

Police say 40-year old Chris Benoit, his wife Nancy, and 7-year old son Daniel were found slain at about 2:30 PM Monday at their Fayette County home near White Water Country Club, but they haven't released more details about the deaths.

Benoit was a former world heavyweight champion, Intercontinental champion and held many other titles throughout his career.

He was a Canadian native, and his family had maintained a home in Atlanta since he wrestled for the now defunct World Championship Wrestling.

Autopsies on the three are expected Tuesday.

According to the organization, "World Wrestling Entertainment is deeply saddened to report that today Chris Benoit and his family were found dead in their home. There are no further details at this time, other than the Benoit family residence is currently being investigated by local authorities."

The WWE canceled its "Monday Night RAW" in Corpus Christi, Texas, and USA Network aired a three-hour tribute to Benoit instead of the scheduled wrestling telecast.

"[Monday's episode of] Raw on USA Network will serve as a tribute to Chris Benoit and his family. WWE extends its sincerest thoughts and prayers to the Benoit family's relatives and loved ones in this time of tragedy."

Friends, family and fans alike are in shock, and beginning to mourn the loss, while police begin an intense investigation.