R.I.P.

This came as a huge shock. First I thought it was just the stupidest rumour. Then...I realized it was true.

LONDON — Fashion designer Alexander McQueen was on Thursday found dead at his London home, after apparently committing suicide, aged 40, police and reports said.

Emergency services were called to his home in central London, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. A Scotland Yard spokesman said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

"We were called to an address at 10.20am this morning by the ambulance service after reports of a man found dead," the spokesman told AFP. "He is believed to be 40 years old. Next of kin have been informed.
"The death is being treated as non-suspicious."

Known for his dramatic statement pieces and impeccable tailoring, McQueen received recognition from Queen Elizabeth II in 2003, when she made him a Commander of the British Empire for his fashion leadership.

"McQueen influenced a whole generation of designers. His brilliant imagination knew no bounds as he conjured up collection after collection of extraordinary designs," said Alexandra Shulman, the editor of British Vogue.

 Mr. McQueen’s troubled personal life was often the subject of concern among his colleagues and close friends. He was deeply affected when Isabella Blow, the eccentric stylist who discovered and championed the designer, committed suicide in 2007, and he was said to be devastated by the death of his mother on Feb. 2.
R.I.P. Alexander McQueen.