Kirshnik Khari Ball, better known as Takeoff of the rap trio Migos, was shot and killed at a party outside a bowling alley in downtown Houston around 2:34 AM on Tuesday. With 40 people in attendance, things took a turn for the worse when an argument started by the front door.
The 28-year-old was seen with his uncle, Quavo – also a member of the rap trio Migos – and was trying to defuse the argument. Videos show Quavo trying to help an unresponsive body, which was later confirmed as Takeoff. Police are trying to determine why the argument started.
According to officials, there were two guns used in the shooting and there were two other victims – a 23-year-old male and a 24-year-old woman who remain unnamed – both of whom were able to transport themselves to a hospital and are now expected to fully recover.
Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner said he doesn’t believe the hip-hop artist was involved in anything criminal at the time. “I got many calls from Houston and outside of Houston, and everyone spoke of what a great young man he is, how peaceful he is,” said Finner.
The city is still trying to uncover what happened and while they don’t have a lot of information at the moment, they’re confident they’ll get to the bottom of this. Nonetheless, they’re urging witnesses to come forward, adding that a majority of the people at the party fled the scene.
“What if it was your brother? What if it was your son? You would want somebody to step up, so please step up, get the information to us, so we can bring some closure to this family who is hurting right now,” said Finner. Most of the details they’ve received have come from employees.
Sylvester Turner, the current Mayor of Houston, echoed Finner’s outreach to those with information. “We will solve this particular case. We will find the shooters, but the information provided will help to expedite that,” he said, adding that the killing has to come to an end.
Celebrities From All Over React to the Death of Takeoff
Takeoff was one of the most respected, talented, and down-to-earth rappers in the game – he didn’t receive as much attention as others, but he didn’t need it. When news of his shocking death surfaced, celebrities from all walks of life started to pay tribute to the talented artist.
“Got the best memories of all of us seeing the world together and bringing light to every city we touch. That’s what I’ll focus on for now. rest easy spaceman,” said Drake. “God bless that man’s spirit his family and friends. SUCH A TALENTED SOUL .. ion understand,” said SZA.
Takeoff rose to fame as a member of Migos – along with his uncle, Quavo, and cousin, Offset. While they recently split, Quavo and Takeoff decided to continue as a duo. They released their first album earlier this year called Only Built for Infinity Links under the name ‘Unc and Phew.’
“This is horrible. From the tragedy of the death to the tragedy of there being a video of it online. It’s all just tragic and I am so sorry to his whole family and all he touched. Really terrible,” said actress Keke Palmer, making note of the graphic videos that have since surfaced online.
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“Takeoff was always the most regular coolest dude ..never saw him being anything but cool and friendly ..a lovely man,” said Peter Rosenberg, as the tributes continued to pour in. Our hearts are with the rapper’s family and the Atlanta community, who are deeply connected to Takeoff.
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