Migos rapper Takeoff killed in Houston shooting

The rapper Takeoff, of the popular rap trio Migos, was shot and killed after attending a party in Houston, Texas, early Tuesday morning, his attorney and police confirmed. He was 28.

“Along with my firm, I am devastated by the tragic death of Kirshnik Ball, known to his fans as Takeoff,” said Drew Findling, the attorney, in a statement. “Takeoff was not only a brilliant musical artist with unlimited talent but also a uniquely kind and gentle soul. He will be greatly missed now and always.”

Houston Police Chief Troy Finner confirmed during a Tuesday afternoon press conference that Takeoff had been killed in the shooting. He urged any witnesses to come forward with information about what happened.

“There were 40 people, at least, at this event. And people left, possibly out of fear,” Finner said. “I ask you one thing … 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 give some closure to this family who is hurting right now.” 

The shooting occurred around 2:30 a.m. local time at the end of private party that was being held at 810 Billiards and Bowling, police said. Police said that shortly after the party ended, an argument broke out that led to the shooting.

When officers arrived, they found Takeoff dead just outside the entrance to the bowling alley, which is located on the third floor of a larger complex, police said.

Two others, a 23-year-old male and a 24-year-old female, were wounded and hospitalized, according to police. They were able to secure private transportation to the hospital and both suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening, police said. They remained hospitalized as of Tuesday afternoon, police said.

No suspects are in custody and police did not indicate any had been identified. An investigation into the shooting is underway and still in its early stages, and police have asked the public to report relevant tips as detectives review surveillance footage at the Houston venue along with video and photos from social media and party attendees.

At least two firearms were used in the shooting, according to Finner. About 40 or 50 guests attended the private party, according to police, and investigators believe the shooter or shooters had been in attendance.

Finner said that, while he did not want to speculate, there was no indication that Takeoff had been involved in “anything criminal” at the time of the shooting. 

“Everyone spoke of what a great young man this is, how peaceful he is, what a great artist,” Finner said.

Finner could not say whether or not Takeoff was the intended target of the shooting, or how many times he was struck.

Takeoff’s uncle and fellow Migos member, Quavo, 31, also appeared to have been in attendance at the party, but police would not confirm Tuesday afternoon if he was there.

Finner said he had spoken with Takeoff’s mother, who flew in from out of town, prior to the Tuesday afternoon press conference.