New details emerge on death of music legend | Herald Sun
Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5, suffered a medical emergency while driving in New Mexico and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. His sons announced his passing on social media, expressing deep sorrow and honoring his caring nature. An autopsy is pending to determine the cause of death, as an investigation continues. Jackson, 70, had recently moved to Oklahoma seeking peace and a new lifestyle.
Tito Jackson, renowned member of the Jackson 5, passed away on Sunday following a medical emergency while driving in New Mexico. Authorities reported that a bystander alerted police to Jackson's condition, leading to his hospitalization, but he was later pronounced dead.
Circumstances Surrounding Tito Jackson's Death
According to New Mexico police, Tito Jackson experienced a medical emergency while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. The incident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. when a passerby noticed Jackson in distress and alerted law enforcement near the American Heritage Plaza shopping center. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital; however, he was pronounced dead hours later.
Speculations and Investigations
Steve Manning, Jackson's former manager, suggested that the musician suffered a heart attack during his journey. However, an autopsy has not yet been conducted, and the official cause of death remains undetermined. Authorities have confirmed that a formal investigation is underway to ascertain the details surrounding his passing.
Family's Heartfelt Tribute
Tito Jackson's sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—shared their grief in a joint statement on their band 3T's Instagram account. They expressed their sorrow at the loss of their father, describing him as an incredible man who profoundly cared for others. The brothers noted that many fans may know him from his time with the Jackson 5, while others may remember him as 'Coach Tito' or 'Poppa T.'
Legacy of a Legendary Musician
The Jackson 5 achieved international fame with their Motown hits, led by their father, Joe Jackson, who passed away in 2018. The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and received three Grammy nominations. After the band's peak, Tito Jackson pursued a solo career, releasing "Tito Time" in 2016. Despite his recent departure from Hollywood's spotlight, he cherished his move to Claremore, Oklahoma, where he sought a simpler lifestyle and found peace.
