Worldwide events mark Lennon's death

LIVERPOOL, England, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- White balloons filled the sky above Liverpool, England, Thursday kicking off worldwide events marking the 25th anniversary of John Lennon's death.

The former Beatle and peace activist was shot to death by a deranged fan outside his New York apartment Dec. 8, 1980. He had just turned 40 on Oct. 9.

In Lennon's hometown of Liverpool, more than 1,000 balloons were released, each containing a message to the fallen rock hero, the BBC reported.

New York media reported fans were starting to gather outside the Dakota apartment building where Lennon was shot as well as in Strawberry Fields, a memorial garden dedicated in 1985 to his memory.

Sirius Satellite Radio and the BBC were setting up for a live broadcast of "Lennon Live" a tribute concert taking place in New York and London featuring performers such as Dave Matthews, Paul Weller, Jamie Cullum, Dr. John, Daryl Hall, Stereo MCs and Lulu.

Lennon's widow, Yoko Ono, has said she and her son with Lennon, Sean, plan to lay low and observe the day in private.