News reports have emerged that grime legend Black The Ripper (real name: Dean West) has sadly passed away at the age of 32.

Hailing from Edmonton in North London, Black The Ripper was revered in the music scene for his role in grime's first wave, particularly seminal projects like Summer Madness, Holla Black and more.

He also gained wider fame (and infamy) as a staunch advocate for the legalisation of cannabis, using his Dank Of England brand of apparel and viral videos of him smoking around famous landmarks to champion the cause.

Details surrounding his death remain scarce at this moment, but we'll update this post as and when updates are confirmed.

Updated on April 7:

Since our original story was published, further details surrounding West's death have now emerged.

Black The Ripper had been staying in Montserrat in the Caribbean since February 25. The local police have confirmed that an autopsy has been ordered after the rapper was found dead in the St. Johns district yesterday, April 6.

He was reportedly found motionless and later pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities also confirmed that the home was searched, but the cause of death remains unknown.

Steve Foster, the Commissioner of Police, said: "At present, the circumstances of his death is unknown. As a result, the coroner (Chief Magistrate) has ordered a Post Mortem Examination to be conducted on the body of the deceased to determine the cause of death. However, I am unable to say and or give a date at this time of when the autopsy examination will be completed."

Since the news broke last night, artists and friends of the rapper have rallied together to express their grief and support for his family.