A coroner’s report released this week revealed the cause of death for the battle rapper, Tech 9.
What We Know:
- Two months after the Philly rapper’s death, the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office determined Tech 9, born Akhiym Mickens, died from an overdose of diphenhydramine, the common antihistamine found in over-the-counter medicines, according to Philadelphia Magazine. The 32-year-old was pronounced dead on March 24 at Holy Redeemer Hospital.
- The day after his death, Mickens was scheduled for an arraignment in Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas on charges of child pornography, indecent assault, indecent exposure and corruption of minors.
- According to court documents obtained by Philadelphia Magazine, Mickens was arrested on Jan. 5 after allegations that he assaulted his girlfriend’s daughter.
- Despite not being a mainstream rapper, Mickens successfully made his way to the top of the Philadelphia hip-hop scene. His many performances for Ultimate Rap League led to him becoming a well-known battle rapper. Additionally, he became a commentator on the battle rap platform, Champion.
- After Mickens died — but before the information pertaining to the child porn charges were shared — his dad raised nearly $30,000 from a Facebook fundraising campaign intended to cover the costs of the funeral. Many people regretted contributing and asked for their money back after the news was widely spread.
Rappers like Meek Mill and Tech N9ne shared their condolences at the time of his death.
Rip dawg!!! I’m tired of saying rip 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 https://t.co/zocx0pyUhL
— Meek Mill (@MeekMill) March 25, 2019
