TMZ.com reports that rap legend Heavy D has passed a short time ago, at the age of 44. Heavy D, born Dwight Arrington Myers, was rushed to an LA area hospital and was pronounced dead at 1PM. A 911 call stated that an unconscious male was laying in the walkway. He was said to be coherent went paramedics arrived, but passed shortly after arriving at the hospital. No foul play is expected.

Heavy D was one of the performers on the 2011 BET Hip-Hop Awards, which air last month in October.

More info as the story develops…