Violator Entertainment Founder and Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty found dead from suicide
Chris Lighty, founder of Violator Entertainment and manager to music heavyweights such as Mariah Carey and LL Cool J, has died at the age of 44.
Police responded to a call in the Bronx on Thursday. Officers discovered Lighty with a gunshot wound to the head and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities recovered a black semi-automatic pistol at the scene and tell MTV News that Lighty’s wound appear to be self-inflicted.
Lighty got his start in the 1980s, building his reputation from the ground up and helped to launch the careers of stars such as Missy Elliott, Q-Tip, Busta Rhymes, Nas, LL Cool J and more.
“R.I.P. Chris Lighty,” Fat Joe posted on his account. “The man that saved my life!”
Diddy wrote: “In shock.”
Rihanna posted: “Rest peacefully Chris Lighty, my prayers go out to family and loved ones! Dear God please have mercy.”
And Mary J. Blige wrote: “U never know what can send a person over the edge or make them want 2 keep living. take it easy on people.”
50 Cent said in a statement issued through his publicist that he was deeply saddened by the loss:
“Chris has been an important part of my business and personal growth for a decade. He was a good friend and advisor who helped me develop as an artist and businessman. My prayers are with his family. He will be greatly missed.”