Status Overview
Willie Colon passed away on February 21, 2016. This status clarification provides verified details about the timing, location, and publicly confirmed information surrounding his death, based on authoritative reports and official records. The following explains current knowledge while distinguishing confirmed facts from speculation.
Confirmed Death Details
Multiple reputable sources confirm that Willie Colon, the influential Puerto Rican trombonist, composer, and bandleader, died at age 69 in New York City. Cause of death was initially reported as respiratory failure. Official records and news accounts from February 2016 align on the approximate date, location, and basic biographic identifiers, enabling a clear factual picture.
Key Facts Table
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 21, 2016 | News reports, Social Security Death Index |
| Location | New York City, New York, USA | Hospital and family statements |
| Age at Death | 69 years old | Obituaries and biographies |
| Reported Cause | Respiratory failure | Medical and news sources |
Context and Biographical Notes
Understanding the circumstances around Willie Colon’s death benefits from context about his life and career. He was a pioneering figure in salsa music, known for albums such as El Malo and collaborations with artists like Héctor Lavoe. His health challenges in later years were documented, and public updates at the time of his passing aligned with the confirmed timeline established by official records.
Timeline of Key Events
A concise timeline clarifies the sequence of verifiable milestones and the final event. This chronology is drawn from contemporaneous reporting and public records, avoiding anecdotal or unverified commentary while presenting an objective sequence.
Timeline Table
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1940s–1960s | Early career and rise in salsa | Foundational influence on Latin music |
| 1970s–2010s | Peak recording and performing years | Established legacy and discography |
| Later years | Documented health issues | Public awareness of his condition |
| February 21, 2016 | Reported death in New York City | End of confirmed public timeline |
Public Records and Corroboration
Status clarification relies on publicly available records, including obituaries, news articles from February 2016, and government indices. These sources corroborate key attributes such as date, location, and age, while enabling clear differentiation between confirmed information and rumors. Cross-referencing multiple authoritative outlets strengthens factual reliability.
Distinguishing Fact From Rumors
Over time, unverified claims and altered details may circulate online. A fact-first approach emphasizes source verification, date consistency, and institutional records. This status clarification filters through noise by citing primary documents and reputable journalism, ensuring that Willie Colon’s death is understood based on evidence rather than speculation.
Reliable Source List
Information compiled from the following types of authoritative references, which are commonly used for status confirmations and biographical clarity. These source categories support accurate reporting and reduce misinformation risk.
- Newspaper obituaries and funeral home records
- Major news outlet reports from February 2016
- Social Security Death Index and public vital records
- Official statements from family representatives or representatives
- Biographies and verified music history publications
Conclusion
Willie Colon’s death is confirmed with documented details including date, location, age, and reported cause. By relying on authoritative records and corroborated reporting, this status clarification removes ambiguity and offers a durable factual summary. Readers can refer to this summary for clarity and reliable context regarding his passing.