US rapper Pop Smoke, known for his breakout single 'Welcome to the Party', has been shot dead in an alleged armed robbery.
Los Angeles police confirmed to Radio 1's Newsbeat a man was shot in his home. The identity of Pop Smoke, real name Bashar Barakah Jackson, was not revealed at the time.
The 20-year-old, who achieved his first Billboard top 10 album this week with Meet The Woo V.2, was reportedly hospitalised and later pronounced dead.
Jackson's label Republic Records has since released a statement on Instagram, saying it's "devastated by the unexpected and tragic loss of Pop Smoke".
"Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans, as we mourn this loss together."
According to BBC News, Los Angeles police confirmed that an unknown number of suspects entered a property in West Hollywood. Officers received a call regarding a robbery shortly before 5am (local time).
Daily Mail has since reported that two to six men invaded the rental property. The outlet claims that Pop Smoke accidentally shared the address through a Facebook video just hours before his death.
50 Cent, Nicki Minaj, Chance the Rapper and Migos' rapper Quavo are among the celebrities who have paid tribute to the young artist, with Quavo remembering Jackson's "humble, respectful and appreciative" attitude.
Jackson released his debut mixtape Meet the Woo in July 2019. Its lead single 'Welcome to the Party' went on to be remixed by both Nicki Minaj and British rapper Skepta. He has collaborated with the likes of Travis Scott, Quavo, Chris Brown and A Boogie wit da Hoodie.
No suspects have been identified and no arrests have been made in connection with the home invasion.
