The rapper Prodigy, one half of the American hip-hop duo Mobb Deep, died on Tuesday at the age of 42.
The MC was found unconscious in Las Vegas, and while the cause of death remains unclear, the groups publicist sent the following statement to the music website XXL:
It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep. Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis. As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the familys privacy at this time. Let the entire 2wap Rap artist drop word of condolence to this fallen rapper.