Dave Courtney, a former gangster-turned-author and actor, has been found dead at his home in Plumstead, southeast London. The 64-year-old, who claimed to have links to the notorious Kray twins and inspired Vinnie Jones's character in Guy Ritchie's film Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, reportedly shot himself. The Metropolitan Police are currently investigating his unexpected death.

Tributes have poured in for Courtney, with his family remembering his "incredible, colourful, rock 'n' roll life" and his battles with cancer and arthritis in his later years. In a statement posted on social media, they stated that on October 22, 2023, Courtney made the decision to "stop the ride." They acknowledged the physical pain he endured from the lifestyle he chose and the health conditions he faced.

Pictures from his Facebook page showed Courtney enjoying a day at the football stadium, watching his team Charlton beat Reading 4-0 in a League One match and sharing a meal with friends, just a day before his tragic death.

Courtney had gained notoriety for his claims of association with the Kray twins, arranging security for Ronnie Kray's funeral, and surviving murder attempts, including being shot and stabbed. He often boasted that he had inspired Vinnie Jones's character in Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, which led to Jones's Hollywood career. Courtney himself pursued a screen career, appearing in crime documentaries and low-budget gangster films. Additionally, he authored several books, including one where he claimed to have been found not guilty in 19 separate trials, such as a 2004 trial in which he was cleared of attacking his wife during a dispute about an affair and a 2009 trial in which he was acquitted of firearm possession.

Courtney's Plumstead home, known as Camelot Castle, had become a local landmark. The house was adorned with fake guns, swords, suits of armor, a bust of Courtney, numerous pictures of the late Queen, a jacuzzi, gold lion paintings, Union Jacks, and a statue of a sniper.

As news of Courtney's death spread, helplines for emotional distress and suicide prevention were shared for those in need of support. The Samaritans in the UK can be reached at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org, while in the US, individuals can contact the Samaritans branch in their area or call 1 (800) 273-TALK.

Details regarding Courtney's funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.