Homicide not ruled out in Jackson death

Investigators probing the death of Michael Jackson are awaiting the results of toxicology tests, which they say will determine whether the singer's death becomes a homicide case.

"We are still awaiting corroboration from the coroner's office as to the cause of death. That is going to be very dependent on the toxicology reports that are due to come back," Los Angeles police Chief William Bratton told CNN on Thursday.

"And based on those, we will have an idea of what it is we are dealing [with]. Are we dealing with a homicide or are we dealing with an accidental overdose?"

Jackson died on June 25 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He had a well-known history of using prescription drugs, including painkillers.

On first hearing of his death, the singer's father, Joe Jackson, said he suspected foul play.

The Jackson family has now been made aware that the investigation could result in a criminal prosecution, CNN reported, quoting a source close to the family.

Investigators are now talking to the many doctors who treated Jackson in recent years.

Jackson's father will attend a memorial service in the family's hometown of Gary, Ind., later on Friday.