By Noah Gulley
On November 1, 2022, around 2:30 a.m. EST, Kirshnik Khari Ball, professionally known as Takeoff, was shot and killed outside of a bowling alley in Houston.
An argument took place that escalated into an exchange of fire between opposing groups which ultimately resulted in Takeoff's death.
Takeoff was the youngest member of the Migos at just 28 years old. While what occurred this past Tuesday was a complete tragedy, Takeoff now has become just another artist that was taken from this world too soon.
It leads one to question the real reason why we've been witness to so many of these beloved artists losing their lives to gun violence over the past few years. Such tragedies could be the result of the consistent promotion of street mindsets or gang culture as a whole.
Takeoff and his fellow Migos member Quavo were hosting a private party Monday night that ran into early Tuesday morning. In reports and a video from the scene, it appears that all seemed to be somewhat civil between a group of people outside of the bowling alley including Takeoff and Quavo (also Takeoff’s uncle).
However, the situation began to take a turn for the worst when Quavo and another individual began to argue over dice and basketball. Moments after the argument began, several shots rang off and Takeoff was left on the ground.
According to TMZ, Takeoff was shot multiple times in the head and torso and was pronounced dead at the scene. An additional two people were reported injured from the incident but were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. According to authorities, there have been no suspects arrested as of right now.
Takeoff’s unique flows, charismatic use of ad libs, and humble appearance attributed to him becoming a pillar of the ever-evolving Atlanta rap sound. The Migos are one of the most influential rap groups of all time and now they will never be the same due to senseless violence.
Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department said in a statement Tuesday, “Sometimes the hip-hop community gets a bad name…we all need to stand together and make sure no one tears down that industry.”
Most recently, this past October, Quavo and Takeoff had released a joint project as the duo, "Unc & Phew." In a recent interview on the popular rap podcast “Drink Champs,” Takeoff explained what his motivation was behind his new album with Quavo.
“It’s time to give me my flowers," he said.
Rest In Peace, Takeoff, an extraordinarily talented artist who touched the lives of countless rap fans around the world.
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