Billionaire's grandson and heir dies in mysterious circumstances
The grandson and heir of billionaire oil tycoon J. Paul Getty's fortune has been found dead in a hotel room.
John Gilbert Getty, who is one of the heirs of a reported US$5 billion (A$6.8 billion), was discovered unresponsive in San Antonio, in the US state of Texas, and died on Friday (local time). He was 52.
"With a heavy heart, Gordon Getty announces the death of his son, John Gilbert Getty," his family confirmed via a spokesperson, according to TMZ.
"John was a talented musician who loved rock and roll. He will be deeply missed."
No foul play is suspected to have played a part in his death, the publication reported.
The 52-year-old leaves behind his daughter, Ivy, "whom he loved beyond measure" as well as brothers Peter and Billy, a spokesperson told People.
"His brother, Andrew, predeceased John. John’s mother, Ann Gilbert Getty, passed this September."
John's daughter posted a series of photos on Instagram to pay tribute to her father.
"My father was awesome – coolest man to ever land on this planet and I will forever be the proudest daughter," Ivy said.
"Love you so much Dad... life is cruel sometimes... I have not one, but two guardian angels watching over me now... here are some of my favourite pictures of him."
John's death comes five years after his brother Andrew was found dead aged 47 in his home in Los Angeles, according to People.
His death was caused by "meth intoxication", TMZ reported.
John's mother Ann died just months ago in September from a heart attack.
Following the sale of Getty Oil in 1984, the 52-year-old's father Gordon, the son of the late J. Paul who was at one point the world's richest man and died in 1976, became the sole trustee of the US$4.1 billion trust, The New York Times reported.
It was later divided into six different trusts, with Forbes estimating Gordon's worth to be US$2.1 billion.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
