On Sunday it was reported that Shad Gaspard had gone missing after he went swimming with his 10 year old son at Venice Beach. Gaspard’s son was rescued, but unfortunately he was submerged when he got caught up in a riptide, and hit by a wave.
The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed today that they found a body matching the description of Shad Gaspard, and that he has passed away at the age of 39.
The wrestling world is obviously heartbroken by the news, and WWE issued the following statement on Shad Gaspard’s passing:
“Shad Gaspard passes away
WWE is saddened to learn that former WWE Superstar Shad Gaspard has passed away at the age of 39.
Gaspard had gone missing while swimming with his son at Venice Beach in California on May 17. In his final act, Gaspard instructed lifeguards to save his son’s life.
Gaspard was best known in WWE as one-half of Cryme Tyme with JTG. The fan-favorite duo memorably joined forces with John Cena during his 2008 rivalry with JBL, and competed for the WWE Tag Team Titles at SummerSlam 2009. Shad and JTG would later square off in heated fashion after a falling out in 2010.
Before entering the squared circle, Gaspard played basketball at Georgia Perimeter College. He was also a former bodyguard for P.Diddy, Britney Spears and Mike Tyson.
Admired by friends and colleagues for his warmth and humor, Gaspard was no stranger to heroic deeds. In 2016, he broke up an armed robbery in Coral Springs, Fla., pinning the suspect to the ground until police arrived.
Gaspard was also a multitalented individual, creating his own graphic novel and acting in several TV shows and films, including “Brothers” and “Think Like a Man Too.”
WWE extends its condolences to Gaspard’s family, friends and fans.”
Our condolences go out to his family, friends and fans.
