Migos rapper Takeoff – real name: Kirshnik Khari Ball – has died at the age of 28 following a shooting at a bowling alley in Houston, Texas. He formed one-third of the popular rap group, Migos, alongside Quavo and Cardi B’s husband, Offset.
According to TMZ, police were called to the bowling alley after reports that a man was shot shortly after 2:30 AM on 1 November. Takeoff was pronounced dead at the scene and two other people on the premises were taken to hospital. Bandmate Quavo, who was also at the bowling alley, was unharmed.
TMZ reports that Takeoff and Quavo were at 810 Billiards & Bowling Houston playing dice when an altercation broke out – that’s when someone opened fire, shooting Takeoff. In footage from the scene obtained by the publication, Quavo and others can be seen gathering around Takeoff and shouting for help.
Earlier in the night, just hours before the shooting, Takeoff took to social media to share a selfie from the bowling alley. And after news of his tragic death, fans and celebrity friends alike flocked online to share messages of condolence.
“I remember Takeoff being a very down to earth, cool dude,” wrote boxer Chris Eubank Jr. “Can’t believe I’m having to say this again about another young Black star being killed for no reason, something really has to change in the industry.”
“Rest in Paradise Takeoff!” tweeted a fan. “This sh*t just hit hard and I’m tryna grasp words to say but I can’t!”
Our thoughts are with Takeoff’s family, friends and fans at this difficult time.