The relatives of a cherished Chicago DJ are opening up for the first time following his tragic suicide, which occurred a week ago.
Landon Wallace, fondly remembered by many as DJ Commando, was just 36 years old at the time of his passing.
In an exclusive conversation with ABC7, his family aims to shed light on the importance of mental health awareness and extend support to others grappling with similar crises.
DJ Commando was a prominent figure, having entertained crowds for the Chicago Bulls, Power 92, Northwestern University, and numerous other prestigious events in Chicago and beyond.
However, despite his public persona, he faced personal challenges that largely remained hidden from view.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, or other mental health issues, you can reach out for help by calling or texting 988. This service connects you to a trained crisis counselor, available 24/7 at no cost. Additional resources can be found at 988lifeline.org or by calling the toll-free number 800-273-8255 [TALK].
“He knew that we loved him. There was no doubt in my mind in my heart that he knew how much we loved him,” father Dr. Lance Wallace said.
Wallace said it’s an indescribable pain that no parent wants to feel. He said he is holding on to the memories he cherished with his only son.
“He was my right hand in terms of attending live sporting events. We did everything together. I’m sure we went over easily, 500 Bears games,” he said.
Just like his father, Landon was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
To the city he was known as DJ Commando, providing music and entertainment to thousands.
Landon, you know, I love you. I miss you. I hope that you are at peace.
“I was so proud of him… the Bulls, the Democratic National Convention, all the international things he did …he was sensational!,” he said.
When asked if he knew his son was struggling, Wallace said: “We had him in counseling and we were addressing those issues.”
“It’s just these other factors that, come into someone’s life. They’re like little demons that keep nipping at you keep nipping at you, and he just couldn’t deal with it anymore,” Lance Wallace said.
Family and friends have come together to remember the good times.
“He had the greatest, the biggest heart. he loved everybody,” stepmother Kimberly Anderson Wallace said.
“He was such a gentleman. He always took care of the women in his life. He always made sure we were good,” sister Logan Wallace said.
“While we are left to bear the weight from here, you have to think of how broken he had to feel, to think that we all were so much better off without him, and that wasn’t true,” cousin Monique Pollard said.
“I’m not afraid to talk about the fact that my son committed suicide,” Wallace said. “A lot of young Black men, a lot of young men face a lot of stress, and as a parent, you don’t always know you know, what exactly they’re facing…I want people to know that you know, this could be your child.”
The family has announced funeral details for this weekend. A viewing service will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at Word Works Believers Church, 12433 S. Halsted Ave., Chicago. The funeral service will be held after an omega service that begins at 11 a.m.
