Tom Petty was 66 (Image courtesy: tompetty)
Highlights
- Tom Petty suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday
- "He died peacefully surrounded by family, bandmates," said a statement
- Tom Petty was known for hits like American Girl, and I Won't Back Down
American Rocker Tom Petty died on Monday in Los Angeles, his family confirmed, reports news agency AFP. He was 66. Tom Petty suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday and was found unconscious at his Malibu home. "On behalf of the Tom Petty family we are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader and friend Tom Petty," a statement from the family said, reports AFP. Tom Petty was erroneously reported dead last night - the reports were later retracted after Los Angeles Police said they could not confirm the death. He was then reported to be on life support. Tom Petty fronted the band
Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers and was also part of the supergroup
The Traveling Wilburys with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne and Roy Orbison.
Tweets poured in for Mr Petty.
"RIP Tom Petty. Even walls fall down," Comedian Seth Meyers tweeted while singer Kid Rock wrote, "Just when I thought today could not get any worse... R.I.P. Tom Petty. Thank you for your beautiful music and inspiration."
"You hang in there, Tom Petty. At least long enough to make it past this horrible day. You deserve a better sunset," tweeted John Mayer.
Tom Petty was known for hits such as
American Girl, Don't Come Around Here No More, Free Falling and
I Won't Back Down. Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers wrapped a tour to mark 40 years of their band last week. Tom Petty was also the co-founder of his early band
Mudcrutch.