British Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen Is Dead

British designer Alexander McQueen has died. A spokeswoman for his company stated that Alexander McQueen, one of Britain’s most successful fashion designers, has been found dead at his home in London. The 40-year-old was discovered at his property in Green Street, in London’s West End.

The UK media organization, Sky News, is reporting that McQueen was found hanged in his apartment. Sky News also reports that local police have said the death would not be “treated as suspicious.” It appears he took his own life although official cause of death has not yet been released.

“On behalf of Lee McQueen’s family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand has been found dead at his home. At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee’s family… Lee’s family has asked for privacy in order to come to terms with this terrible news and we hope the media will respect this.”

The devastating news comes just weeks after the death of his mother Joyce who died on February 2nd and three years after the suicide of his dear friend and fashion icon Isabella Blow, who helped launch his career. His death also comes just days before the start of London fashion week and a month before he was to unveil his new collection at Paris fashion week.

Lee (Alexander) McQueen was the creative chief behind the brand he founded in the 1990s and sold to Gucci Group in 2000.

The 40-year-old designer often designed outfits for Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Prince Charles.