Hip-hop star Dr Dre’s son found dead

Andre Romelle Young Jr, the son of legendary rapper and hip-hop producer Dr Dre, has died. He was found dead on Saturday morning by his mother, who tried to rouse him. Young was 20 years old.

Dre’s representatives confirmed Young’s death on Tuesday, saying in a statement that, “Dr Dre is mourning the loss of his son Andre Young Jr. Please respect his family’s grief and privacy at this time.”

Young was discovered in his bed around 10:30 am on Saturday, the coroner’s spokesperson said. Although Young’s mother called paramedics, they were unable to revive him. Young was pronounced dead at the scene.

An autopsy on Young’s body was conducted on Monday, MTV News reported, but the cause of death is undetermined pending a toxicology report. According to Young’s mother, he spent the previous evening out with friends – arriving home at only 5:30 am on Saturday. His mother told police she had heard him in his bedroom.

Police have said that they do not suspect foul play.

This sad news comes in what might otherwise have been a banner year for Dr Dre, whose real name is Andre Romelle Young (senior). The Detox, his long-gestating third solo album, is anticipated for late in 2008 and is likely to include cameos by most, if not all, contemporary hip-hop stars.

modernghana.com