Hoffman death puts spotlight on heroin epidemic

The shocking death of Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman from a suspected drugs overdose has highlighted a growing epidemic of heroin use across the US, officials have warned.

Hoffman, a 46-year-old father of three who was considered one of the finest character actors of his generation, was found lying on his apartment bathroom floor with a needle still stuck in his arm.

Empty and full bags of heroin were found in the apartment and while the autopsy will confirm the precise cause of death, few expect any announcement other than an overdose.