Rapper Foolio Fatally Shot During 26th Birthday Celebration in Tampa

Florida rapper Foolio, born Charles Jones, was tragically shot and killed during his 26th birthday celebration in Tampa, Florida, shocking the music community. The incident occurred early Sunday morning in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn, where the Jacksonville-based artist was reportedly ambushed.

Foolio, known for his 2019 hit “Voo Doo” and the controversial track “When I See You,” had been celebrating his birthday with friends and fans at a pool party before the fatal shooting. According to his lawyer, Lewis Fusco, the rapper had been asked to leave the Airbnb where the party was initially held due to exceeding occupancy limits.

The Tampa Police Department received a 911 call about the shooting around 4:40 a.m. EDT. Officers arrived at the scene to find two vehicles shot at in the hotel parking lot. Law enforcement believes the incident was a targeted attack, though the investigation is still ongoing.

Foolio’s untimely death has left fans and fellow artists in shock and mourning. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the young rapper. His girlfriend, Blanco Mani, confirmed his passing on Instagram, which is now set to private.

Throughout his career, Foolio had been involved in several violent incidents, including being shot at in 2020 and 2023. His death is a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence and loss within the hip-hop community.