I know you’ve probably already heard of this today.  I stepped out only to come back and hear that Fashion designer Alexander McQueen, 40, was found dead in his London flat in the exclusive Green Park area.  A source:

“An ambulance was called at 10am today. Alexander was found hanging inside.”

It is said he was depressed over the death of his mother a week ago, and the day after her death wrote on Twitter:

“i’m letting my followers know the my mother passed away yesterday if it she had not me nor would you RIP mumx”

A minute later he added: “but life must go on!”

On Sunday he wrote:

“sunday evening been a f****** awful week but my friends have been great but now i have to some how pull myself together …”

Model Kate Moss was a bridesmaid at his marriage to documentary maker George Forsyth in 2000 (they split a few years later).  A spokeswoman for Kate said she is:

“shocked and devastated at the tragic loss of her dear friend Lee McQueen”

His website has the following message:

On behalf of Lee McQueen’s family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand has been found dead at his home. At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee’s family.

Lee’s family has asked for privacy in order to come to terms with this terrible news and we hope the media will respect this.

That main picture was from February 2 of this year.  Our sincere condolences to family and friends at this very sad time.

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Photos:  WENN