A family spokesperson has confirmed that the death of Truett McKeehan was by opioid abuse, according to People.
Truett’s father, singer TobyMac, was forced
to leave his tour following the devastating news. He did not get back to his
family until after midnight and so was not at home when the death occurred.
The death has rocked the family, with the renowned Christian artist releasing a new song, 21 Years, in honor of Truett.
The aspiring young rapper released a number
of songs that became popular on Youtube. It is reported that his father, whose
real name is Kevin McKeehan, wrote the songs for his son.
In October 2018, his father opened up to The Tennseesan about his son’s move to Los Angeles and the challenges of trying to make it in the fickle music industry.
The last couple of months have been the hardest I’ve ever faced,” Toby commented on Instagram. “Thank you for the love and support. Part of my process has always been to write about the things I’m going through, but this went to a whole new level. What started out as getting some of my thoughts and feelings about losing my firstborn son down on paper, ended up a song. “21 Years” is a song I never wanted to write. I hope it’s for someone out there, or maybe it’s just for me.”
According to Mayo Clinic, physical and psychological reliance on opioids, a substance found in certain prescription pain medications and illegal drugs such as heroin, causing addiction.
Opioids were designed as a prescription to treat
pain. With prolonged use, pain-relieving effects may lessen and pain can become
worse, however opioids are highly addictive. Opioid dependence causes
withdrawal symptoms, which makes it difficult to stop taking them. Addiction
occurs when dependence interferes with daily life. Taking more than the
prescribed amount or using illegal opioids such as heroin may result in death.