Update: Why Did Heavy D Die?

When news hit that hip-hop legend Heavy D had passed away yesterday at the age of 44, saddened fans rushed to YouTube to replay "Now That We Found Love" and wonder what they were gonna do with the news.

There were few details about how the overweight lover had died other than the fact that he had collapsed, yet was still conscious and being treated, only to die an hour or so later.

More information has emerged today about what may have happened.

As much as we'd love to report on some mysterious hip hop conspiracy, or a war between Heavy D and the Fat Boys, it sounds like the rapper's death may have everything to do with him being...well...heavy.

TMZ reported today that Heavy D was tipping the scales at 344 pounds at the time of his death. Before a recent string of acting roles, Heavy D had reportedly lost up to 65 pounds to help get work, but had apparently put the weight back on.

The actor was also reportedly battling an undisclosed illness, which may have contributed to his untimely demise.

According to the L.A. Times, "Ed Winter, a coroner's spokesman, said no illegal drugs were found at Heavy D's Beverly Hills home, but a doctor had prescribed him a drug after the rapper, 44, experienced a cough."

The Beverly Hills Police Department released a statement saying that when they arrived at the scene of Heavy D's condo, where he had collapsed, he was aware of what was going on and responsive.

"Upon arrival, officers discovered a male, 44 years old, conscious, communicative, but having difficulty breathing," the Beverly Hills Police Department said in a statement.

Autopsy results, which will include a toxicology report, won't reportedly be available for another month.

Watch the video for Heavy D's "Nuttin' But Love":