Details have emerged from the untimely passing of hip hop management pioneer, Chris Lighty, and they are grim. New York Daily News is reporting that after facing family issues with his wife, and financial concerns, that Lighty had taken his own life.
Regarded by many as one of the forefathers in the industry side of things of hip hop, Chris Lighty was involved in developing some massive careers such as Diddy, Mariah Carey, 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, and many more. On Thursday he was found dead outside his Bronx apartment, at the age of 44, after apparently taking his own life using a 9-mm pistol. Neighbors reported an argument followed by a gun shot, and when authorities arrived Lighty was already dead.
Authorities say that Lighty, founder of Violator Management, may have been dealing with financial issues with owing a hefty sum of around $5 million to the IRS. His personal life was also in turmoil, as just before his death he was arguing with his estranged wife, who had filed for divorce last year.
Following the news of his death the hip hop community has banded around to show his support. Twitter has been flooded with an out pour of grief, and fond memories, for a man who influenced so many in the game.
https://twitter.com/_/status/241318609819955200
https://twitter.com/_/status/241234557817479169
We here at HNHH send our deepest condolences to Chris' family and friends. He was truly an inspiration, and always acted with the utmost class and respect.