On Thursday (July 8), The Westchester County Medical Examiner’s office released a statement that DMX has passed away from a cocaine-induced heart attack that caused a lack of blood circulation to his brain.

“It was cardiac arrest for a period of time, so there was no circulation to the brain,” the source said. DMX died at the age of 50 on April 9, 2021, after being hospitalized for a week under life support.

Earl “DMX’ Simmons, born in Yonkers, New York, has solidified himself as hip-hop royalty. The rapper was an undeniable force in the industry, starting his career blazing through the underground as a battle rapper to becoming one of the most celebrated acts in hip-hop history; DMX is forever a legend.

“Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end,” Simmons’ estate said in a statement. “[His] music inspired countless fans across the world, and his iconic legacy will live on forever.”