Migos rapper Takeoff was killed by a 'stray bullet', his record label has claimed in a statement. The 28-year-old, Grammy-nominated musician died on Tuesday in a shooting at a bowling alley in Houston, Texas.
Paying tribute, his record label said in a statement: 'Senseless violence and a stray bullet has taken another life from this world and we are devastated.' Houston Police Chief Troy Finner said he did not want to speculate on whether Takeoff was the target, adding: 'Based on what people say about him, he's well respected, non-violent.'
The shooting took place at about 02:30 local time on a balcony outside the 810 Billiards and Bowling Alley, where Takeoff had reportedly been playing dice with his uncle and bandmate, Quavo. Police said 40 to 50 guests had been at a private party when someone opened fire. Officers found a man with a gunshot wound to the head or neck, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other people were injured and driven to hospital in private vehicles. No arrests have been made.
Takeoff, real name Kirsnick Khari Ball, was one third of the chart-topping Atlanta band Migos, whose hits included 'Walk It Talk It', 'Stir Fry' and 'Versace'. They achieved mainstream success with their 2016 single 'Bad And Boujee', which topped the US charts and was nominated for a Grammy. Tributes have flooded social media, with Drake, Gucci Mane and Outkast among those expressing their devastation.
Police Chief Finner appealed for information, saying: 'Please step up, get the information to us so we can bring some closure to this family who's hurting right now.' He confirmed that at least two firearms were involved and at least two individuals pulled triggers. Takeoff's mother has flown to Houston following his death.
