The music industry was shaken to its core when news broke out that rapper Pop Smoke had been shot and killed during a home invasion robbery in Hollywood Hills in February 2020. The tragic event was made even more shocking by the fact that the alleged shooter was only 15 years old at the time. Now, over three years later, an 18-year-old man admitted on Friday to fatally shooting Pop during a juvenile court hearing after being charged with first-degree murder, home-invasion robbery, and discharging a firearm during the crime.
The defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed and is one of four people charged with the rapper’s death, is expected to be held in a state juvenile facility until he turns 25. The court has ordered the media not to identify any of the juvenile defendants involved in this case, highlighting the sensitive nature of this case. “That man lost his life over no good reason,” Judge J. Christopher told the 18-year-old in court, according to FOX5 LA. “You have no right to take somebody’s life. You have no right to take somebody’s property.”
RELATED: Pop Smoke’s Murder Suspect Says He Wanted Alleged Shooter To Smash A Vase Over His Head, Not Shoot
The incident highlights the dangers of social media, where celebrities often share their personal locations and belongings with their fans, inadvertently putting themselves at risk of theft and harm. The “Dior” rapper, whose real name is Bashar Barakah Jackson, had posted a photo of the gift bag he had received with the address on a label, which ultimately led the robbers to the house. Pop was an up-and-coming artist, among the leaders of Brooklyn’s drill movement.
His death is not only tragic but also highlights the issue of gun violence in the United States. The incident sparked outrage among fans and colleagues who demanded stricter gun control laws to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
As with other rappers who have tragically lost their lives to gun violence, such as Takeoff, there has been a range of reactions from fellow artists. Some have expressed condolences and grief, while others have taken the opportunity to address the larger issue of gun violence in America.
The initial reaction to Takeoff’s death was one of shock and sadness, and many celebrities, including Cardi B, expressed their condolences on social media. However, some have also pointed out that victim blaming is a common response to rappers’ deaths, with some arguing that they should have taken better security measures.
Ultimately, the loss of Pop Smoke and other young rappers is a tragedy that affects us all and underscores the urgent need for change.
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