Scott Sterling found dead

As you've probably already read in the FanShots and FanPosts, Scott Sterling, the 31 year old son of Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling, was found dead Tuesday night in his Malibu apartment.

My parents also live in Malibu, and we have on occasion run into the Sterling clan at breakfast in area restaurants. Regardless of his reputation as an owner or the common perception of him, Sterling was clearly a proud and doting father and this must surely be a devastating blow. Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family at this difficult time.

I would recommend the LA Times' LA Now blog as the best place to stay abreast of the details on this story. It is early, but there are no signs of foul play and the police at this point suspect a drug overdose. It will be a matter of weeks before toxicology tests determine a definitive cause of death.

[Note by Steve Perrin, 01/02/13 4:22 PM PST ]

The Clippers have released a statement on behalf of the Sterlings:

Our son Scott has fought a long and valiant battle against Type 1 Diabetes.

His death is a terrible tragedy, the effects of which will be felt forever by our family and all those who knew and loved him.

We sincerely appreciate the warm outpouring of sympathy and support from so many of our dear friends.

At this time, we respectfully ask to be afforded the opportunity to mourn this loss in an appropriately private manner.