WQYK radio host Dave McKay found dead

ST. PETERSBURG (FOX 13) - A well-known Bay Area radio personality was found dead in his home Thursday morning.

According to St. Petersburg Police, WQYK radio host Dave McKay didn't show up for work for the 'Dave and Veronica' show.  A co-worker who lives in his building on 2nd Street South checked on him and found him dead just after 6:30 a.m.

"It's shocking. It's so sad. He was a larger-than-life person," his co-hosts said on the air, shortly after learning about his passing.

McKay, whose real name is Steve Ehmke, lived alone in the apartment.

McKay had been with WQYK since 1992 and was a fixture for many morning radio listeners across the Bay Area. The station confirmed the sad news this morning with a Facebook post inviting fans to leave their memories.

Police are still investigating the death, but say there is no sign of foul play and they can rule out homicide or suicide.

"They had to face this morning without Dave and it was a shock and they are still in shock," said Randy Price, a long-time friend and former co-host, who stopped by the WQYK studio to talk about McKay. "He ate, drank and slept radio. That was his first love."

Fellow WQYK host Geno said via social media that he was at a loss for words. "Haven't really processed this yet. Dave was so full of life. Just in total disbelief right now," he tweeted.

McKay was well known in the county music world. Blake Shelton tweeted, "I'm very sorry to hear about this. Prayers to his family and friends."

WQYK's parent company, Beasley Media Group, released a statement this morning:

McKay was 55.