Prince Markie Dee tragically passed away yesterday (Feb. 18) and AllHipHop has now reported his cause of death. According to the outlet, the legendary Fat Boys member died from congestive heart failure after suffering “distressing” health issues.
Sources close to Prince told the outlet he was rushed to the hospital on Thursday after feeling unwell and experiencing swelling in his legs. The 52-year-old’s health reportedly continued to decline rapidly, and he was sadly pronounced dead at the hospital soon after. According to the outlet, his mother was able to fly out to the Miami hospital after learning about his poor health.
Today (Feb. 19) would have been Prince’s 53rd birthday.
Louis “Uncle Louie” Gregory, one of Prince’s closest friends, mourned his passing on Twitter.
“Forever in my Heart. Prince Markie Dee was more than a rapper; he was one of my very best and closest friends. My heart breaks today because I lost a brother. I’ll always love you Mark and I’ll cherish everything you taught me. Tomorrow is your birthday, swing my way big bro,” he wrote.
“I hope there is Twitter in heaven,” Louis told AllHipHop after seeing tributes pour in from fans yesterday.
After news of Prince’s passing spread, SiriusXM’s Rock the Bells released a statement.
“The Rock The Bells family is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mark ‘Prince Markie Dee’ Morales earlier today,” it read. “That voice and his presence can never be replaced. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones.”
Countless others, including Eminem, Fat Joe, Questlove and more also mourned Prince’s death online.
“So sad [to] hear of the legendary [Prince Markie Dee] of the Fat Boys’ passing,” Em wrote on Twitter. “One of my childhood idols & favorite MC’s of all time. Left us way [too] soon. He will truly be missed.”
We at REVOLT continue to send our condolences to Prince’s friends and family at this time.