Thomas Jefferson Byrd, actor mostly known for his roles in Spike Lee films and Set It Off (as Luther), was shot and killed in Atlanta, according to police.
Officers responded to an injured person call, located southwest of the city. When the officers arrived, they found 70-year old Byrd unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds to the back. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Homicide detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Byrd, a native of Georgia, received a Bachelor’s degree at Morris Brown College and a Master’s from California Institute of the Arts.
He acted on Spike Lee films such as: He Got Game, Get on the Bus, and Clockers. The director posted a series of special tributes on Instagram in honor of Byrd.
His iconic roles will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Bryd.
