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Just 18 days before his first London O2 Arena concert, it has been confirmed tonight that Michael Jackson has died

TMZ.com

RIP Michael Jackson

Official statement on AEG Live’s website:

UCLA Statement – Michael Jackson

The legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2009, at 2:26 p.m. It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home. However, the cause of his death is unknown until results of the autopsy are known.

His personal physician, who was with him at the time, attempted to resuscitate Jackson, as did paramedics who transported him to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Upon arriving at the hospital at approximately 1:14 p.m., a team of doctors, including emergency physicians and cardiologists, attempted to resuscitate him for a period of more than one hour but were unsuccessful.

Jackson’s family requests that the media respect their privacy during this tragic period of time.

-UCLA-

A further announcement for ticket holders will be made in due course.