DJ Erick Morillo Found Dead at 49 in Miami Home

World-renowned DJ and producer Erick Morillo has been found dead at his home in Miami Beach at the age of 49.

One of the pioneers of the house music scene, Erick Morillo, has been found dead in his home in Miami Beach at the age of 49. First reported by TMZ, Local 10 News in Miami Beach confirmed his passing with the Miami Beach Police Department as well, stating “Officers say they received a 911 call at 10:42 a.m to 5660 La Gorce Drive. Detectives are on scene and in the preliminary stages of the investigation, Miami Beach Public Information Officer Ernesto Rodriguez said in an email.”

The news of Erick Morillo’s passing comes just weeks after he was arrested on accusations of sexual battery on a woman in his home last December. While Morillo denied the accusations, a rape kit came back and tested positive for his DNA, and he turned himself in to police with his attorney. His court hearing was scheduled to take place on Friday, September 4.

Erick Morillo was best-known for his tracks like “I Like To Move It” under his Reel 2 Real alias that was prominently featured in the movie Madagascar. He also performed sets at some of the world’s largest festivals such as Tomorrowland, Mysteryland, and EDC Las Vegas while being named one of the top DJs in the scene multiple times throughout his career. During the pandemic, Morillo continued to perform on a number of livestreams that included Beatport ReConnect and Factory 93 on Insomniac TV.

This is a developing story, check back for updates as more information surfaces.

H/t: WPLG Local 10 News Miami