BREAKING NEWS: DMX Confirmed Dead Less Than A Week After Overdose And Heart Attack

 The rapper DMX has died aged 50 almost a week after his heart attack and reported overdose.

His family confirmed the news in a statement saying: 'We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50 years old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.'

The news came after it was reported Friday that his organs had failed, and that he had 'not regained any brain function' and his condition had not improved after a series of tests that were performed on Wednesday. 

'Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him,' the statement, shared via People, continued. 'Earl's music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever.'

'We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized." 

The tests had reportedly left his family with the agonizing decision over whether to keep the 50-year-old entertainer on life support. 

TMZ reported that the tests had proved there was 'no improvement in brain activity' since the rapper was first rushed into hospital last Friday, after he was deprived of any oxygen for nearly half an hour.

The test results had been described as 'not good' in the Thursday report. His family requested that longtime friend and former manager Steve Rifkind fly to New York on Friday to be by his side.

TMZ reported Monday that some of DMX's 15 children had been visiting him in the hospital.