Death of Pop Icon Michael Jackson Shocks World

The world is in shock and mourning over the death of American pop music icon Michael Jackson, who died of a heart attack yesterday in Los Angeles. He was 50.

Jackson stopped breathing around noon in his home and was rushed to the UCLA medical center. He was pronounced dead at 2:26 p.m. from a heart attack.

An autopsy is said to be underway to determine the exact cause of death.

"The King of Pop" had been preparing over the last two months for comeback concerts in London next month. Jackson had sought to restore his reputation tainted by scandals including alleged child molestation and side effects from plastic surgery.

The singer began his musical career as a child as part of the Jackson 5. He later dominated the pop music industry for four decades with smash hits such as “Billie Jean” and “Beat It.”

His 1982 album "Thriller" remains the bestselling album of all time with estimated worldwide sales of 50 million copies.

sechepa@donga.com