Tito Jackson hospitalized for medical emergency prior to death
Tito Jackson, a former member of the Jackson 5, experienced a medical crisis in New Mexico before his passing.
An officer from the Gallup Police Department received a call on Sunday night about someone needing urgent medical help, as stated in a press release from GPD on Monday. The officer then summoned an ambulance for the person, who was later confirmed to be Jackson.
The press release added, “This information comes from an initial investigation that is ongoing. Investigators are currently interviewing witnesses and reviewing both physical and digital records. Our understanding of the situation may change as more evidence is collected and examined.”
At the time of his death, Jackson was 70 years old and renowned for his role in the Grammy-winning R&B group Jackson 5 alongside his siblings.
Tito Jackson’s children pay tribute to late singer
His sons — Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson — shared the news of his passing through an Instagram tribute early Monday.
“We are in shock and filled with sorrow. Our father was a remarkable person who cared for everyone around him,” they wrote alongside a series of images featuring their father and the Jackson 5 on his official Instagram page.
“It will always be ‘Tito Time’ for us,” they added. “Let’s remember to follow our father’s enduring message: ‘Love One Another.’ We will miss you, Pops.”
Alongside siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito was instrumental in forming the Motown sensation Jackson 5 and later The Jacksons. He was honored with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Jackson 5 in 1997 and received three Grammy nominations with the group.
Tito Jackson was described as the “quiet yet strong driving force” of the group, according to entertainment executive Suzanne de Passe, who collaborated with the Jackson 5.
“His commitment to both the group and his art was pivotal in their extraordinary success,” she remarked. “Tito’s essence, both on stage and off, will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.”