Hip-Hop Manager Chris Lighty Dies

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of one of its pioneers. Manager Chris Lighty has died after reportedly committing suicide.

According to the New York Daily News, Lighty passed away Thursday morning after he shot himself during an argument with his ex-wife inside his Bronx apartment.

Law enforcement sources report that the 44-year-old music executive may have been struggling with financial issues, including owing around $5 million to the IRS.

As founder and owner of Violator Management, Lighty was instrumental in the careers of superstars including 50 Cent, Diddy, Busta Rhymes, and Soulja Boy.

Some of his friends took to Twitter to offer their condolences. “R.I.P CHRIS LIGHTY THE MAN THAT SAVED MY LIFE!!!” tweeted Fat Joe. “I Would Be Nothing Without YOU!!! My Kids Appreciate YOU God Bless Chris Lighty.”

Nick Cannon, whose wife Mariah Carey was once managed by Lighty, also expressed his sadness. “I’m devastated right now. I can’t believe my big brother Chris Lighty is gone… He was a pioneer, a mentor, and a great friend RIP.”