Merciless is the latest victim in a series of tragedies hitting the entertainment fraternity. Most recently have been the deaths of Reggae stalwarts Sanchez and Bugle’s mothers and now the veteran dancehall deejay.
The Clarendon-based recording artiste, whose given name is Leonard Bartley, was found dead at a hotel on Beechwood Avenue in St. Andrew only days after celebrating his 51st birthday.
According to preliminary reports, Merciless, known for his lyrical prowess and one of the most formidable opponents in dancehall clashes, passed away on Tuesday, July 19, while sojourning in Kingston. It’s understood that Merciless was discovered face down on the bed when hotel workers and his driver entered the room after not hearing from him the entire day.
In a media report, his chauffeur stated he was last seen alive Monday night after returning to his room but heard nothing from the artiste for the proceeding hours, which raised the alarm and led to their checks.
However, the reports also suggest that no foul play is believed to be involved in the entertainer’s death.
Rocked by grief, there has been an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment community and broader society acknowledging the impact of Merciless on the genre.
