It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Hip-Hop Manager Chris Lighty. Lighty is most known for his work as the founder of Violator Management. Throughout his career, we have seen him work with amazing talents like Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, Missy Elliott, Fantasia, Mýa, Diggy Simmons, Cormega, Ja Rule, Mobb Deep, LL Cool J and Nas. At this time there is no word on his passing, but friends of the musical genius have shared thoughts via Twitter – read more below.

Celebrities and industry tastemakers are pouring out their sympathy during the spreading of news of Chris Lighty departing us.

Jeff Robinson ‏@thejeffrobinson “So very sad about Chris lighty..Great long time friend,fellow bronxite and peer…incredible businessman and person.”

FAT JOE (‏@fatjoe) R.I.P CHRIS LIGHTY THE MAN THAT SAVED MY LIFE!!!

DJ DRAMA ‏(@DJDRAMA) wow. no words. RIP Chris Lighty.

9th Wonder (@9thWonderMusic) My God…..my god…Chris Lighty…..Rest in Peace brother….#Legend

Karen Ciѵil ‏(@KarenCivil) Devastated to hear about the loss of Chris Lighty. My prayers & thoughts are with his family.

Decon (@Decon) RIP Chris Lighty. Our deepest condolences to his friends, family & team.

SCRAM JONES ‏(@SCRAMJONES) R.I.P. Chris Lighty – thats just crazy – #1 Hip Hop Manager

dream hampton ‏@dreamhampton So sad RT @insideplaya @clighty has passed due to suicide. RIP

isis ‏(@isarias) Just called to confirm it. My heart goes out… They’re going too soon…. RIP @clighty. #prayersup

Pill (‏@Pill4180) Wow!! R.I.P Chris Lighty…. Hip-Hop Legend responsible for many careers in the music industry.

Ghostface Killah ‏(@GhostfaceKillah) Hard one to grab Yo damn…. My most humble prayers to the family of Chris Lighty!

UPDATE: NYDailyNews reports that Chris’ passing was from an apparent suicide in his Bronx, NY apartment. It is noted that there was a bullet wound to his head and a gun next to his body. Law enforcement sources have shared that along with the divorcing from his wife last year, Lighty was also dealing with financial hardships – owing the IRS up to $5MIL. No word if this has been confirmed.