The head of Takeoff’s record label wants his fans, the public and hip hop, in general, to take one thing from his death, which is violence is not the way to go when things get heated.
Paying tribute, Taekoff’s record label said in a statement: “Senseless violence and a stray bullet has taken another life from this world and we are devastated.”
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner said he did not want to speculate on whether Takeoff was the target.
He added: “Based on what people say about him, he’s well respected, non-violent.
“I would not expect him to be involved but I do want to wait on the investigation – but we have no reason to believe that he was involved in anything criminal at the time, just as people describe him as very peaceful, loving, a great entertainer.”
He pleaded with witnesses at the scene to come forward.
“Please step up, get the information to us so we can bring some closure to this family who’s hurting right now,” he said at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.
The shooting took place at about 02:30 local time (07:30 GMT) on a balcony outside the 810 Billiards and Bowling Alley, where Takeoff had reportedly been playing dice with his uncle and bandmate, Quavo.
Police said 40 to 50 guests had been at a private party when someone opened fire. When they arrived, officers said they found a large crowd and a man with a gunshot wound to the head or neck. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two other people, a 24-year-old man and 23-year-old woman, were injured and were driven to hospital in private vehicles. No arrests have been made.
Police Chief Finner said “at least two firearms” were involved in the incident” and that there were “at least two individuals pulling triggers around here”.
Pierre “Pee” Thomas, CEO of Quality Control, posted an emotional message late Tuesday night … starting by saying anyone who knows them “knows how much I love you” — noting the 28-year-old’s death was incredibly unexpected.
Pee says the loss should remind every loss should remind everyone how valuable life is and adds, “I want our community to remember that we don’t have to continue to result to violence every time there is a disagreement. It’s ok to love your brother and sister.”
Pee’s message, largely written directly to Takeoff, ends with this heartfelt statement — “You came from the stars so I know you will forever be up there watching down on all of us. I will forever love you. 💔.”