SHAKIR STEWART, VP of Def Jam Records, passed away during the night as a result of a single gunshot wound to the head. 

Stewart was the handpicked successor when JAY-Z vacated that post in January. 

According to Def Jam, Stewart’s body was found in Atlanta. Some sources say Stewart shot himself in his home. No further confirmed details of the suicide, have emerged. 

Def Jam released it’s one and only statement regarding the tragedy last night to Vibe Magazine.

“LA Reid and all of us at Island Def Jam Music Group are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Shakir Stewart. Shakir was an amazing man, in every sense of the word.  A truly incredible friend and father who was an inspiration to not only our artists and employees, but to his family and the many people who had the privilege of counting him as a friend. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.” 

Stewart took the post officially on June 3rd, following a long career that helped shape some of the most popular artists to date. 

Shakir leaves behind a 5 year old daughter. 

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Stewarts family and friends.