Pop Smoke‘s family released a statement on the rapper’s murder. He was shot and killed on Feb. 19 in Hollywood, California, at 20 years old.
“The family of Bashar ‘Pop Smoke’ Jackson would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone for your support,” the statement began.
“Every prayer, call, and act of kindness is deeply appreciated as we mourn the loss of our son, brother and friend,” it continued. “Brooklyn knew him as Bashar. He was educated and nurtured in Brooklyn and his rise to fame all developed from the place he proudly represented. Within the last year, his extraordinary gifts were revealed to the world; introducing Pop Smoke.”
The family then sent a message to those reporting Pop Smoke’s murder and said as of now there hasn’t been any new information revealed.
“Unfortunately, there are no public details available regarding the murder of our loved one,” the family stated. “We ask for respect and responsible reporting during this critical time.”
Before Pop Smoke was killed, he began seeing huge success in his career. His latest mixtape, “Meet the Woo 2,” released on Feb. 7, reached the No. 7 spot on Billboard’s Top 200 chart.
Pop Smoke, who was part of Brooklyn’s drill scene, also collaborated with artists like Nicki Minaj, Travis Scott, and Skepta during his rise.
After his death, Minaj sent her condolences, as did people like Chance The Rapper, Quavo, and 50 Cent, who said Pop Smoke was about to “take over” the music industry.
Earlier this week, the Los Angeles County coroner’s office confirmed that Pop Smoke died of a gunshot wound to the torso.
His family held a private vigil and prayer service for him on Sunday, Feb. 23, inside a Brooklyn church, according to reports.
