Yes, Linkin Park fans, this is unfortunately real.
On Thursday morning (20th July), Linkin Park’s vocalist, Chester Bennington was found dead in his home due to suspected suicide. Malaysians were shocked by this news, as many of them considered the band’s music to be a pivotal part of their childhood and teenage years.
Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda confirmed the tragedy on Twitter just a few hours ago.
Source: Twitter
The talented vocalist’s life is mourned by millions all over the world, and definitely came as a shock to many. So far, here’s what we know about this tragic incident;
1. He struggled with substance abuse in the past
Source: TMZ
Chester Bennington reportedly struggled with alcohol and drug abuse and was even abused as a child. According to BBC News, he shared that he contemplated suicide before due to his past trauma.
2. Linkin Park was about to go on a world tour
The frontman reportedly hanged himself according to a coroner who conducted an autopsy on him. This happened just one week before his band was meant to go on a world tour.
Source: Variety
3. Chester passed away on Chris Cornell’s birthday, a vocalist who also recently committed suicide
He was reportedly very close friends with Soundgarden vocalist, Chris Cornell, who also tragically committed suicide earlier this year in May.
Source: E! Online
Chester was understandably shocked when this happened and he tweeted an open letter to his close friend shortly after his death. An excerpt from his letter reads,
“You have inspired me in ways you could never have known… I can’t imagine a world without you in it.”
Sadly, Chester took his own life on Chris’ 53rd birthday.
4. His band mates did not see his death coming
As soon as news broke of the singer’s tragic death, fans shortly began flocking outside his home to leave flowers as a sign of respect. Linkin Park’s DJ, Joe Hahn, was also photographed outside Chester’s home.
Source: TMZ
According to TMZ, the band had plans to do a photo shoot just hours after the singer decided to take his own life, which was why his sudden death blindsided his band members.
Other members of Linkin Park were also seen outside his home shortly after police arrived.
5. He leaves behind a wife and six children
According to BBC News, Chester had a wife and six children from two marriages who were also shocked by his passing.
Source: Variety
The world has lost a great vocalist and musician, who created music that defined a generation. Our condolences go out to Chester Bennington’s family, friends, and the millions of fans he touched with his music. May he rest in peace.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, here are some resources that can help;
- Hotline: 03-79568144 or 03-79568145 (available 24 hours)
Also read: Abused Domestic Worker Leaves Suicide Note and Jumps to Her Death in Singapore
