Rapper Tech 9’s cause of death ruled a suicide, coroner says

Two months after his death, a coroner’s report released this week revealed rapper Tech 9’s cause of death.

The Montgomery County Coroner's Office determined that Tech 9, whose real name is Akhiym Mickens, died from an overdose of a common ingredient in over-the-counter medicines, according to Philadelphia magazine. Mickens was pronounced dead on March 24 at Holy Redeemer Hospital just outside of Philadelphia. He was 32 years old.

One day after his death, the rapper had been scheduled for an arraignment hearing in Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas on charges of child pornography, indecent assault, indecent exposure, and corruption of minors, the magazine reported. Mickens had been arrested on Jan. 5 following allegations that he had assaulted the daughter of his girlfriend, per court documents obtained by Philadelphia magazine.

Tech 9 was not considered a mainstream rapper, but he had climbed the ranks in battle rap across the Philadelphia hip-hop scene. According to The Source, he "started his professional battle rap career in as a fighting cub in the legendary leagues, Lionz Den and Street Arena." It would be his numerous performances at the Ultimate Rap League (URL) that catapulted him into his status as a renowned battle rapper.

The Philadelphia lyricist was considered a “battle rap legend and pioneer,” fellow Philadelphia rapper Buttah From the Block told XXL Mag in March. Rappers like Tech N9ne, Kendrick Lamar and fellow Philadelphia emcee Meek Mill shared their condolences and paid tribute at the time of his death.

If you or anyone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text the 24-hour help hotline at 800-273-8255. For more information, go to www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.