Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5, passed away on September 15, 2024, in Gallup, New Mexico, at the age of 70. The Gallup Police Department has now provided further insight into the events leading to his death.
According to their official statement, an officer was flagged down near the American Heritage Plaza around 6:17 p.m. due to an individual in need of medical assistance. Tito Jackson was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police are conducting a preliminary investigation and actively interviewing witnesses. “The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may evolve as additional evidence is gathered and analyzed,” the police noted.
Tito Jackson’s Family and Friends Mourn
Though an official cause of death has not been confirmed, longtime family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning, believes that Tito suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. This tragic event marks yet another profound loss for the Jackson family, following the deaths of Michael Jackson in 2009 and their father, Joe Jackson, in 2018.
Tito’s sons—TJ, Taj, and Taryll—posted an emotional tribute to their father on Instagram, stating, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken.” The statement continued, “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached, and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
A Lasting Legacy
Tito Jackson will be remembered as an essential member of the Jackson 5, whose hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC” reached global success. His solo career, highlighted by his 2016 album Tito Time, further cemented his place in music history. Jackson’s death has sparked a wave of tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and family members as the world mourns the loss of a music icon.
The investigation into the cause of death is ongoing, and more information is expected in the coming days.