Family pays tribute to ex-gangster’s ‘incredible, colourful, rock ‘n’ roll life’
Dave Courtney, 64, was found dead at his home in south east London on Sunday.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The family of ex-gangster Dave Courtney has paid tribute to his “incredible, colourful, rock ‘n’ roll life” after the 64-year-old was found dead at his home in south-east London.
Courtney, who claimed to be an associate of 1960s gangland criminals the Kray twins, swapped an earlier life of crime for writing books in his later years.
He was found at his home in Chestnut Rise, Plumstead, on Sunday, having reportedly shot himself.
His family posted a statement on X that said: “On October 22 2023, Dave made the decision to stop the ride.
“He had lived an incredible, colourful, rock ‘n’ roll life in which he touched the hearts of so many.
“The physical pain of living the lifestyle he chose, especially due to the pain of both cancer and arthritis in his later years, became too much.”
In his final Facebook post, Courtney could be seen watching Charlton Athletic win 4-0 against Reading on Saturday.
The ex-criminal enjoyed the “full works” at The Valley stadium, eating a three-course meal.
Courtney was rumoured to be the inspiration behind Vinnie Jones’s character in Guy Ritchie’s gangster film Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels.
After turning to writing, he published six books, and starred in a film called Hell To Pay.
The Metropolitan Police said the death is currently being treated as unexpected and is under investigation.