LOS ANGELES- Grammy-nominated rapper Nipsey Hussle was shot dead in the US city of Los Angeles Sunday, leading to an outpour of grief from fellow celebrities as the city’s mayor blamed “senseless gun violence.”
Eyewitnesses saw a man escaping in a vehicle after the shooting. The Los Angeles Police Department said they are still searching for the suspect who they only described as a black male.
Moments before the gunfire, Nipsey had tweeted: ‘Having strong enemies is a blessing.’
Having strong enemies is a blessing.
— THA GREAT (@NipseyHussle) March 31, 2019
Nipsey Hussle’s debut album Victory Lap received a nomination for best rap album at this year’s Grammy Awards, where he was nominated against Cardi B, Mac Miller, Pusha T and Travis Scott.
Hussle collaborated with dozens of successful artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Drake, YG, Ty Dolla Sign, Meek Mill and Young Thug.
He worked outside the music industry as well. Last year he launched the first Marathon Clothing smart store at 3420 W. Slauson Ave. in Los Angeles. He also owns The Marathon Agency, SC Commercial Ventures, Proud 2 Pay and All Money In No Money Out Records, according to Press Atlantic Records.
News of Hussle’s death prompted an emanation of grief and tributes from fellow celebrities and LA city officials on social media.
This doesn’t make any sense! My spirit is shaken by this! Dear God may His spirit Rest In Peace and May You grant divine comfort to all his loved ones! ???
I’m so sorry this happened to you @nipseyhussle pic.twitter.com/rKZ2agxm2a— Rihanna (@rihanna) April 1, 2019
LA Mayor Eric Garcetti tweeted his condolences, writing that “LA is hurt deeply each time a young life is lost to senseless gun violence.”
Our hearts are with the loved ones of Nipsey Hussle and everyone touched by this awful tragedy. L.A. is hurt deeply each time a young life is lost to senseless gun violence. My Crisis Response Team is assisting the families coping with shock and grief.
— Mayor Eric Garcetti (@MayorOfLA) April 1, 2019
Sad, mad and disappointed about my guy @NipseyHussle
— Ice Cube (@icecube) April 1, 2019
You were about something..positive and for your community in every chance you had to speak..and because of that You inspired millions..millions who will uphold your legacy forever. rest amongst the stars. ?? https://t.co/7gZ795wcQT
— Pharrell Williams (@Pharrell) April 1, 2019
Drake, who won a Grammy on the same night and recorded the 2009 track Killer Nipsey Hussle, also took to Instagram to pay tribute.
Born Ermias Asghedom, Hussle was seen by many in Los Angeles as a lynchpin of the community, redistributing his earnings into the violence-plagued neighborhoods he came from.
