Hearing this news is especially depressing for me. I knew him in middle school, he was my best friend then. The guy was smart as hell and really sharp back then. When he moved after 9th grade he totally changed and became someone that I never thought he was. It's sad seeing how far he fell, the kid had so much potential but he took the easy road instead.
I can understand the comment about "how much he wanted to fit in." Probably the character flaw that instigated his fall.
If you happen to read this Chris: I'm sorry about what happened to you, but i cannot feel sorry for you. What I've heard about you shows that you are no longer the friend I once knew. If you happen to come to your senses and decide to get cleaned up drop me a line, but if not I wish you the best of luck.