Hip hop manager Chris Lighty found dead in his New York apartment

The music industry was shook hard Thursday morning as news hit that legendary hip hop manager and founder of Violator Management, Chris Lighty was found dead in his apartment.

The man who is behind the careers of many notable musicians including 50 Cent, Diddy, Fat Joe, Ja Rule and Mariah Carey was said to have had an altercation with his ex- wife, Veronica before his untimely death.

New York Daily News is reporting that Lighty committed suicide and shot himself in the head.

Reports also show that Lighty owed the IRS around $5 million and he had other financial issues.

Russell Simmons, who worked with Lighty since 1988, released a statement via his website Global Grind which stated:

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of a hip hop hero. Chris Lighty has been a dear friend of mine since he was a kid. Was a brilliant partner in business and I was so proud of all that he had accomplished. He is an amazing example of how a passionate kid from the street can go to the most even-keeled, smart, thoughtful manager in the business and a generous philanthropist. He was loved by everyone who knew him, including me. He will be missed greatly by all of us.”