Heath Ledger's heartbroken family is expected to bring his body back to his hometown Perth, Australia later this week, according to media reports Tuesday.

Ledger's father Kim, mother Sally Ledger Bell and sister Kate are among a group of about 15 family members who flew out of Los Angeles last night for Australia.

Family members have already attended two memorial services in Los Angeles.

Actor Heath Ledger is pictured in a scene from Brokeback Mountain in this undated publicity photograph. Ledger received a best actor nomination for his role for the upcoming 78th Academy Awards. (photo: Xinhua/Reuters)

Ledger died in his New York City apartment Jan. 22 at age 28. The cause of his death is still pending the outcome of toxicology tests, though authorities suspect a drug overdose.

Police said several prescription drugs were found in the apartment where the actor's body was found.

Perth locals expressed sadness at his sudden death and outrage over rumors that he was a drug user.

Much of the rumors were fueled by video footage showing Ledger at a Hollywood hotel party where drugs were being taken two years ago.

It is reported that his family will hold a private funeral in Perth later this week and he will be buried in the Ledger family plot, near his grandparents, at Perth's Karrakatta cemetery.

(Agencies via Xinhua February 5, 2008)