United States rapper DMX has died in hospital after a week on life support following a drug overdose induced heart attack. He was 50 years old.

The rapper, real name Earl Simmons, was on life support in a vegetative state after suffering three heart attacks during a drug overdose, according to reports.

He died at the White Plains Hospital in New York on Friday.

The news of DMX’s death was confirmed by his family in a statement which iHarare is publishing in its entirety below.

“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.”

Breaking News - DMX Dead At 50 After Week On Life Support Following Heart Attack!

“Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever.”

“We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”

The staff of White Plains Hospital in New York, where DMX was being treated following his overdose, released a statement to DMX’s family and fans after his death was announced. The statement reads:

“White Plains Hospital extends its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Simmons, as well as his friends and legions of fans who expressed their unwavering support during this difficult time.

“Earl Simmons passed away peacefully with family present after suffering a catastrophic cardiac arrest.”

The gruff-voiced growling rapper rose to fame with his 1998 blockbuster debut, “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot,” and became a chart and tabloid mainstay for years after.

According to Variety, he burst onto the national scene with the February 1998 release of “Get at Me Dog,” which was released on Ruff Ryders, his management’s label through Def Jam. It was followed by “” Ruff Ryders Anthem” and his debut album, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 — a rare feat for a new artist during the CD age — and went on to sell more than 5 million copies

DMX was a dominant figure in hip-hop and popular music in the late 1990s and 2000s. Each of his first five albums reached No. 1 on the Billboard album chart.