Def Jam EVP Shakir Stewart Commits Suicide

Def Jam Executive Vice President Shakir Stewart committed suicide today in New York, according to reports.

Stewart succeeded Jay-Z at Def Jam in June, while retaining his duties as Senior Vice President of A&R at Island Def Jam. The Oakland, CA native signed artists including Young Jeezy and Rick Ross to the legendary label. He came to the company from Hitco Publishing, where he signed Beyoncé to the firm.

“The bold young management style that Shakir has established at Def Jam is one of the major reasons behind the label’s success today,” said Island Def Jam Chairman Antonio “L.A.” Reid in a statement from June.

UPDATE: Reps at Def Jam have confirmed Stewart’s death. He reportedly died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.