Hip-Hop mogul Chris Lightly was found dead in his New York City apartment On Thursday, the victim of an apparently suicide.
During his career the hip-hop superstar managed some of the biggest names in the industry including Sean “Diddy” Combs,” “50 Cent,” and “Mariah Carey.”
Chris Lightly was discovered in his Bronx home with what appeared to be a self inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Police did not recover a suicide note but removed a .9-mm handgun from the scene.
The rap moguls body will be examined by the medical examiner’s office to complete standard protocol.
Chris Lightly was an innovator in the rap industry who not only helped his artists achieve musical success but also guided them into lucrative deals outside of music.
Despite his successes Chris Lightly and his management company Violator were recently experiencing financial and personal troubles.
Lightly’s body was discovered at 11:30 am and his friends quickly took to Twitter. Fat Joe wrote:
“R.I.P. Chris Lighty. The man that saved my life!”
Another hip-hop mogul, Russell Simmons tweeted:
“Today, we lost a hip-hop hero and one of its greatest architects.”
50 Cent also took a moment to remember his friend as he released the following statement:
“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.”
Rihanna also took to Twitter:
Rest peacefully Chris Lighty, my prayers go out to family and loved ones! Dear God please have mercy
— Rihanna (@rihanna) August 30, 2012
While Mary J. Blige added:
U never know what can send a person over the edge or make them want 2 keep living. take it easy on people. We are so fragile.
— Mary J. Blige (@maryjblige) August 30, 2012
Chris Lightly worked with Three 6 Mafia, Missy Elliott, Papose and many others.
Lighting is survived by his wife Veronica and his two children. Veronica and Lightly were in the process of getting a divorce but electronic records show the divorce was filed to be ended in June.
