A post mortem examination is currently taking place on Michael Jackson’s body, but the results are not likely to be final until toxicology tests are completed, a process that could take several days and maybe weeks, LA county coroner investigator Jerry McKibben said.
The coroner will need to officially release the body before any funeral can be held, but speculation is mounting as to what type of funeral the star will have.
No details have been released by the family regarding any future arrangements but the world is wondering what will happen next.
According to some reports, Jackson converted to Islam last November in a ceremony with an Imam in Los Angeles, which would mean he would need to be buried as soon as possible.
But there have been doubts over the conversion and Jackson, who was raised as a Jehovah's Witness, never spoke publicly about it.
The demand for a mass public service is likely to be high. Tributes to the superstar flooded in within seconds of the news breaking last night and hordes of fans flocked to the medical centre to pay their respects.
Any funeral or memorial service is likely to be compared with that of Elvis Presley and James Brown as millions mourn his death in their own way around the world.
In London, Harrods owner Mohamed al Fayed has already promised to erect a Michael Jackson memorial at the store and various memorial events are being planned by fans, many using the internet to spread the message.
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Last updated: 26 June 2009, 17:42
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