There was a rumor circulating many years ago (I think back in 99/00) that he was dead. When I first saw the headline, I thought it may have been another rumor. Unfortunately, it's true. So sad.
Stingrays are poisonous. Their tail has venom. I was in the Caymen Islands a few years back and went swimming with them. The tour guides made sure everyone knew not to put their feet down when they were in the water. Most humans who are stung by them are stung through their foot.