Def Jam Executive Vice President Commits Suicide

In tragic news, Def Jam Executive Vice President Shakir Stewart killed himself Saturday in Atlanta. He was only 34 years old.

His body was discovered in a bathroom in his home around 4 p.m. with a self inflicted gunshot wound.

Stewart’s fiancée, Michelle Rivers and Shakir’s family released this joint statement:

“We would like to thank Shakir’s friends for the tremendous outpouring of love and support we have received during this difficult time. It has helped us to cope with our overwhelming grief and sadness. It is difficult to express or explain in words what led to the tragic occurrence on Saturday. Over the past several weeks, Shakir’s behavior was inconsistent with the man we all know and love. As much as we all tried to help him, Shakir was in deep pain and largely suffering in silence. Please remember Shakir for who he was … a wonderful father, partner, son and friend.”

Def Jam also released a statement:

“L.A. Reid and all of us at Island Def Jam Music Group are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Shakir Stewart,” the statement reads. “Shakir was an amazing man, in every sense of the word. A truly incredible friend and father who was an inspiration to not only our artists and employees, but to his family and the many people who had the privilege of counting him as a friend. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.”

[MTV]

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