Burgeoning rapper Pop Smoke was shot and killed at a home in the Hollywood Hills on February 19.
On Friday (February 28), the family of the late Brooklyn native shared a statement thanking people for the outpouring of love while asking for “responsible reporting” in the process.
“The family of Bashar ‘Pop Smoke’ Jackson would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone for your support,” the statement read. “Every prayer, call, and act of kindness is deeply appreciated as we mourn the loss of our son, brother and friend. 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.”
The statement continued, “Within the last year, his extraordinary giftedness was revealed to the world, introducing Pop Smoke. Unfortunately, there are no public details available regarding the murder of our loved one. We ask for respect and responsible reporting during this critical time. Inaccurate reports only add unnecessary pain to a grieving family.”
In the wake of his death, many of his peers expressed their condolences on social media. Meanwhile, Pusha T and Jadakiss decided to have their “Hunting Season” collaboration removed from streaming services due to the sensitive nature of the song.
Pop Smoke Murdered During Home Invasion
“‘Hunting Season’ was a request IcePick Jay (RIP) always had and in light of his death me and Kiss mad an incredible song,” Pusha explained on Instagram. “With that being said, the whole concept of hunting season and the hypothetical ideas of ‘killing rappers’ isn’t setting well with me while mourning the recent death of Popsmoke.”
Jadakiss later pushed back the entire release of the Ignatius album — which “Hunting Season” was originally on — out of respect for the family.
According to the Los Angeles County coroner, Pop Smoke died of a gunshot wound to the torso. He was just 20 years old. Police have yet to make any arrests.