'Belly' Star and Grammy Winner Louie Rankin Dies Following Tragic Car Accident in Canada

Grammy award-winning artist Louie Rankin, who famously played the character of Ox in the movie "Belly" has died following a fatal car crash in Ontario, Canada.

Rankin’s representatives confirmed the sad incident on his official Twitter account.

The statement read:

"It saddens us to have to announce that The 'ORGINAL DON DADA' 'Trail Blazer' the legend - Louie Ox Rankin passed away this morning! May God keep his soul with his father, sister and neice in #heaven #amen #sipox"

According to TMZ, the Jamaica-born artist was involved in an accident involving a transport truck and his vehicle on Monday, September 30.

Still To Come: According to his Instagram page, Rankin was about to drop a new album

Heavy.com also reports that Ontario police did not immediately respond to a request for details about the accident, but Rankin’s friends said it took place in Melancthon Township, on Highway 89 near Shelburne.

Ontario police Constable Shannon Gordanier, however, confirmed the fatal crash to Global News, saying:

"We got the call at 9:17 am this morning. Both vehicles were single occupants – one person in each vehicle. ...We’re waiting for the traffic collision investigation team to attend the location and help us determine exactly what did happen. We’re not speculating at this time."

The outlet reported that the accident involved a transport truck and a passenger vehicle. The man in the passenger vehicle, according to the police, died at the scene. Friends say that man is Rankin.

Rankin was best known for his role as Jamaican drug lord Ox in the 1998 crime drama "Belly" where he starred alongside rappers Nas and DMX. Rankin also appeared in the 2002 film "Shottas" as Teddy Bruckshut and starred in 2014’s "We Run the Streets" as Choppa.

In a video posted to Instagram a day before his death, Rankin announced he was filming a new movie in Toronto. "The Original Don DaDa On Set," he wrote alongside the clip. "Shooting A Major Movie In Toronto."

Rankin was also a dancehall and reggae icon and often referred to himself in his lyrics as the "Original Don Dada."

Rankin released several albums during his lifetime, winning a Grammy for his 1992 hit single "Typewriter." According to his Instagram page, Rankin was about to drop a new album at the time of his death.

Rankin’s social media pages have been flocked with condolences from fans and colleagues all over the world. Fellow dancehall artist Popcaan shared a picture with the late artist and wrote:

"Legends don’t die!!!! It is very unfortunate what happen to you fam but god knows best.. rest up fada Louie your memories are forever..!!!"

"Strength to all family & friends," another fan added on Twitter. "Rest easy General."

According to Heavy.com, Rankin was aged 55 and is survived by his wife of more than 30 years and his seven children.

Rest in Peace, Louie Rankin.