Grew up in the Imperial Courts project in Watts, one of the most
dangerous parts of Los Angeles inner city.
On 8/4/22 he was involved in a car accident in Lynwood, CA, becoming paralyzed from the shoulders down. He died three days later from his injuries at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at the age of 83.
Though a certified helicopter pilot, he was not allowed to do his own stunts in Magnum P.I..