Emotional tributes are flowing on social media for New Zealand rapper Louie Knuxx after his sudden death in Australia.
The hip-hop artist - real name Todd Williams - died while out running in Melbourne on Friday, Stuff reports, although the cause of death has not been disclosed.
That's been followed by an outpouring of grief from Aotearoa's music community over the loss of the gifted MC, who achieved critical success with the release of his debut album Wasted Youth in 2006.
"Can't process this news. Can't believe it. Thanks for having me at your house in NP when I was an annoying 18 year old. You had a challenging start and dedicated your life to helping others. You touched many lives. Forever my hero. Rest In Peace Louie Knuxx," tweeted Arcade founder and radio host Mike Hall.
"OMFG I can't believe it. Our bro is gone," added DJ Sir-Vere.
"One of a kind. Seriously - ONE OF A KIND. There is no one like him and won't be. F**k."
"I didn't know Louie Knuxx, but I feel a duty to pay my respects to those who went before me in NZ hip-hop. Especially someone who was clearly loved and adored by many, and whose loss has left my entire community in grief," tweeted rapper and producer Mazbou Q.
"Travel well and RIP. Arohanui to everyone hurting today."
"The NZ hip-hop community is mourning after the news of his death. He was incredibly special and talented and gave so much back to his community," tweeted RNZ's Music 101 programmer Charlotte Ryan.
"We lost a great artist a few hours ago," said rapper Ezy Lyric
"Todd you were a great man, and an amazing hero to New Plymouth, you didn't give up while the world had its hardest moments with you around, Hard as it is Rest easy Louie Knuxx."
His brother Matthew Williams told Stuff the death has been referred to the coroner.
