Remember Hakeem on 'Moesha'? He Was Way Too Young When He Died a Tragic Death

It's devastating to learn about the demise of a loved one, especially when they are young. In 2005, the world lost a great actor with a bright future, Lamont Bentley.

He rose to fame for his portrayal of Hakeem, a glutton, a hitchhiker and the guy always in need of a ride from his neighbor to school, on "Moesha," where he starred alongside Brandy.

Lamont Bentley on the UPN comedy series "Moesha" in November 1996 | Source: Getty Images

Lamont Bentley's death

Unfortunately, Lamont was involved in a car accident that claimed his life on January 19, 2005. The tragedy occurred in the early hours of the morning while he journeyed back from the screening of the short film "Shards" at Simi Valley.

The actor was reported to have lost control of his Mercedes-Benz on the Rocky Peak Fire Road. He had sped past a stop sign and a fence made of chains before going down an embankment.

Details of the accident

The details provided by the senior deputy medical examiner for Ventura County revealed that Lamont suffered hits from more three vehicles.

He was declared dead a few minutes after midnight. According to the LA Times, the examination carried out on his body verified that he died of "multiple blunt force injuries," and he had no drugs or alcohol in his system.

Lamont Bentley as Hakeem Campbell on "Moesha" in November 1996 | Source: Getty Images

The deceased was survived by his two girls, and his mom Cali who was a resident in his home, Granada Hills. Some of Bently's loved ones expressed their hurt, after the tragic event. His manager said:

“It’s like a candle being snuffed right out.”

While his fellow actors on "Moesha" released a statement stating,

“Yesterday became a somber day when we heard of Lamont’s death,” he has been a friend to us and our family while being a part of the Moesha family.”

Lamont Bentley during "The Wash" in November 2001 | Source: Getty Images

The actor was famous for his many roles in movies and short dramas. He was born on October 25 and was a native of Milwaukee. Lamont began his career featuring on advertisements at a very young age.

His big break to stardom came in 1994 when he acted in the episodic play "South Central." Coupled with acting, the late actor also delved into music in 2001.

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