American rapper, Kirshnik Khari Ball, known professionally as Takeoff, from the chart-topping group Migos, has been shot dead at the age of 28 in Houston, Texas.
The rave making American artiste was killed at a bowling alley where he was playing dice with his uncle and bandmate, Quavo, on Tuesday.
A representative for the musician confirmed the news to the Associated Press.
The shooting took place at about 02:30 local time (07:30 GMT) on a balcony outside the 810 Billiards and Bowling Alley.
The Georgia rapper was known for creating hits such as Versace and Motorsport alongside fellow rappers Quavo and Offset
Migos were one of the most influential groups of their generation, pioneering a style of rapping in choppy, staccato triplets known as the “Migos flow”.
The band, who split earlier this year, scored several international hits including Bad and Boujee, Versace and Walk It Talk It.
On Twitter, friends and admirers paid tribute to the late rapper. “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 peace to Takeoff, I just spoke to him too,” wrote Twitch streamer Adin Ross. “I’m in shock right now, I can’t believe it. I pray to god it’s fake. This shit just ain’t fair bro wtf.
Kirshnik Khari Ball, known professionally as Takeoff, was an American rapper. He was best known as a member of the hip hop trio Migos along with his uncle Quavo and first cousin once removed Offset. Migos’ 2013 hit “Versace” went viral and peaked at number 99 on the Billboard Hot 100