Tragic Loss for NBA and Los Angeles: Lakers Co-Owner Mark Walter Found Dead in Hotel Room

Tragic Loss for NBA and Los Angeles: Lakers Co-Owner Mark Walter Found Dead in Hotel Room

Los Angeles, CA — June 14, 2025

In a heart-wrenching development that has sent shockwaves through the NBA community and beyond, Mark Walter, co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers and widely respected business leader, has been found dead in a hotel room in downtown Los Angeles. He was 64.

According to early reports from the Los Angeles Police Department, Walter’s body was discovered late Friday evening in his suite at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel. First responders were called to the scene around 10:15 PM after hotel staff reportedly became concerned when he failed to respond to repeated knocks and calls. Paramedics arrived shortly after and pronounced him dead at the scene. The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but authorities stated there were no immediate signs of foul play.

The Walter family, through a brief statement released this morning, said:

> “We are devastated by the sudden loss of our beloved Mark. He was a visionary, a devoted father and husband, and an inspiring leader whose impact extended far beyond sports. We ask for privacy during this unimaginably difficult time.”

Walter, a billionaire investor and the CEO of Guggenheim Partners, became a co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021 through a minority stake acquisition. He was already known for his involvement in professional sports, including his role as principal owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and co-owner of Chelsea Football Club in the UK. His contributions to the Lakers’ front office helped navigate the team through critical transitions, both in leadership and strategic direction.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his sorrow in a public statement:

> “Mark Walter was not only a brilliant businessman but also a passionate supporter of basketball and sports as a whole. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence were evident in every endeavor he pursued. The NBA has lost a true friend, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Lakers organization.”

Lakers President Jeanie Buss, visibly emotional during a hastily arranged press conference outside Crypto.com Arena this morning, described Walter as “a pillar of strength and vision” in the Lakers family.

> “Mark wasn’t just an investor—he was a dreamer, a builder, and a believer in the power of sports to change lives,” Buss said. “His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, and our entire organization is in mourning.”

Walter was in Los Angeles this week reportedly attending private meetings concerning the Lakers’ long-term strategic goals, including roster development, brand expansion, and arena modernization plans. Those close to him described him as being in good spirits, making the news of his death all the more difficult to comprehend.

Beyond sports, Walter was a noted philanthropist. Through his foundation, he contributed millions to environmental causes, education reform, and community development. He was also involved in criminal justice reform efforts and worked closely with non-profit organizations aimed at reducing homelessness and poverty in Los Angeles.

Walter’s impact on the Lakers was not only financial but deeply cultural. His calm demeanor and long-term vision helped shape the team’s post-COVID recovery and financial stabilization. He was instrumental in forming partnerships and investments that aimed to preserve the Lakers’ legacy while modernizing its global appeal.

Long-time Lakers fans have taken to social media to express their sorrow and gratitude. Thousands have already gathered outside the Lakers’ home arena, laying down flowers, jerseys, handwritten notes, and lighting candles in his memory. A public vigil is expected to be announced in the coming hours.

Teammates and NBA players have also paid tribute online. Lakers star LeBron James tweeted:

> “Heartbroken. Mark was a man of wisdom, humility, and love for the game. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Anthony Davis posted on Instagram:

> “Life is precious. Thank you, Mark, for believing in all of us and helping this team find its future. Praying for your family.

Walter is survived by his wife, Kimbra, and their son. Plans for a private funeral are underway, and the Lakers organization has announced that it will honor Walter with a black ribbon on players’ jerseys during upcoming games. A moment of silence is also planned before the team’s next home game.

This tragic news marks yet another painful chapter for the Lakers family, a franchise that has seen its share of both triumph and tragedy in recent years. As fans and the sports world at large come to terms with this unexpected loss, one thing remains clear: Mark Walter’s legacy will endure—through the teams he helped build, the lives he touched, and the vision he brought to every field he stepped onto.

May he rest in peace.