On early Monday, Tom Petty was found unconscious, not breathing, and in full cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu. He was then rushed to UCLA Santa Monica Hospital where they tried reviving him, but he died later that evening. According to his long-time manager, “He died peacefully at 8:40 PM on Monday, surrounded by family, his bandmates, and friends."

Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers just wrapped their 40th-anniversary tour at the Hollywood Bowl last week.

All about Tom Petty

Tom Petty was a musician, multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and record producer.

He was the member and co-founder of the late 1980s supergroup “Traveling Wilburys” and his early band “Mudcrutch.” He was also the lead singer for the band “Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.”

Petty sold more than 80 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He was inducted into the “Rock And Roll Hall of Fame” in 2002 with classic songs like "Free Fallin'," "American Girl," and "I Won't Back Down." He was also honored with Billboard’s Century Award. It is the highest honor for the creative music of Billboard. On December 6, 2005, Petty received the award during the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas.

In 1974, he was married to Jane Benyo but the two got divorced in 1996.

They were blessed with two daughters; Adria, a director, and Anna Kim, an artist. On June 3, 2001, Petty married Dana York Epperson and gained a stepson, Dylan, who was from Dana York's earlier marriage.

Musicians and celebrities mourn for Tom Petty’s death

Many artists and celebrities were devastated after hearing the news about Petty's death and they couldn't believe that the rock legend had left the music world.

Fellow artists and celebrities took to social media to grieve Petty’s death. Many posted their memories, heart-touching messages, and condolences for the late rock legend on their official Twitter accounts. The sadness and appreciation for the man who helped create many hits during his 40 years in music was felt in social media as many of his friends, supporters, and co-artists paid tribute to him.

Musicians like Paul McCartney, John Mayer, and Cristina Perri posted messages and love for Tom Petty on their personal Twitter accounts. Other artists and notable celebrities also sent their love and condolences to the musician's wife and family members.
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