Dominique Dunne, Actress, Dies After Being Choked

Nov. 5, 1982

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Dominique Dunne, a 22-year-old actress who made her movie debut in ''Poltergiest,'' died today without regaining consciousness after being choked by an assailant five days ago.

Miss Dunne had been on life-support systems at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center since she was found unconscious Saturday night in the driveway of her West Hollywood home. An autopsy has been scheduled.

A former boyfriend, identified as John Sweeney, 26, who investigators have quoted as saying ''I killed my girlfriend,'' has been charged in the attack. Mr. Sweeney, a chef at the Ma Maison restaurant, and Miss Dunne had lived together, but separated recently. A sheriff's deputy said that the two argued when Mr. Sweeney wanted to move back into her house.

A version of this article appears in print on , Section D, Page 19 of the National edition with the headline: Dominique Dunne, Actress, Dies After Being Choked. Order Reprints | Today’s Paper | Subscribe

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