Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd has reportedly died after being shot in Atlanta early Saturday.
Byrd, who was known for his work in Spike Lee films, was found unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds to his back, police confirmed to the Associated Press. He was pronounced dead on the scene, the outlet reported.
Byrd took on roles in films such as “Clockers,” “Get On The Bus,” “Bamboozled,” “Red Hook Summer,” “Set It Off” and “He Got Game.” The actor also participated in theater and earned a Tony nomination in 2003 for his performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” (RELATED: Spike Lee Explains Why He Put A Black Trump Supporter In His Latest Movie)
Lee shared a tribute to Byrd on his Instagram account.
“I’m So Sad To Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd Last Night In Atlanta,Georgia,” Lee captioned a photo of the actor.
“May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family,” he added. “Rest In Peace Brother Byrd.”
Actress Elisabeth Omilami reacted to the news in a statement to WXIA-TV in Atlanta, the AP reported.
“He was a special person whose personality filled up the whole room when he entered you knew he was there,” Omilamo said. “He fought his way through this very racist and difficult Hollywood system and was able to maintain a career through it all.”