Kottonmouth Kings rapper Saint Dog dead at 44 after he was 'struggling to breathe' at friend's house

Kottonmouth Kings rapper Saint Dog has died at the age of 44.

Real name Steven Thronson, Saint Dog was pronounced dead at his friend's house in California on October 13.

Law enforcement sources told TMZ that he was found by his pal "struggling to breathe," and the friend called 911.

The publication claims "there were no obvious signs of foul play" and "cause of death will be determined pending an autopsy and toxicology report."

Suburban Noize Records paid tribute on socia media, writing: "He was a founding member of the hip hop group, along with D-Loc and Johnny Richter, but Dog left after he worked with the band on four projects, Stoners Reeking HRIP🙏"

"Our brother Steven “Saint Dog” Thronson left us yesterday. We will miss you and your big heart. You were one of a kind and our hearts our broken. But we promise to keep your legacy alive threw your music.

"Everyone please take some time and say a few words or tell a story about our fallen brother below. He touched so many and we will keep his legacy thriving."

His management team also confirmed the tragic news, writing: "Rest In Peace, Rest In Power to a true underground legend.

"Saint Dog aka Saint Vicious passed away yesterday in Southern California.

"Saint was a unique individual that had a profound impact on anyone he came in contact with.

"While Saint is no longer with us, his music will live on forever. Rest easy, King. - Management."

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Suburban Noize Records exec Kevin Zinger told TMZ: "Some of my fondest memories was watching Steve stop the music in the middle of a Kottonmouth Kings show to bring a handicapped fan in a wheelchair on stage so that he could have a better view of the show and even join in singing a few songs.

"That was just the kind of person Steve was and he touched so many people in a positive way.

"His legacy will live on in his music and our hearts go out to his Son Max and his entire family, friends and fans worldwide."

Fans paid tribute on social media, with Verbal Assault207, a hardcore Hip Hop group from Maine, sharing a picture and admitting: "This hits hard."

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