Rising Rapper Julio Foolio Killed in Tampa Shooting
Incident Details and Police Investigation
Julio Foolio, born Charles Jones, a rising American rapper, was tragically shot and killed early Sunday morning, June 23, in Tampa, Florida. The incident occurred during a weekend celebration for his 26th birthday. According to his lawyer, Fusco Lewis, the rapper and his friends were ambushed in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn where they were staying after being evicted from an Airbnb for exceeding the maximum number of occupants.
Police were notified of the shooting around 4:40 a.m. Jones and three other individuals were in their car when unidentified assailants opened fire, resulting in Julio Foolio's death and serious injuries to his friends. The Tampa police are currently investigating the incident and are urging anyone with information or video evidence to come forward. Police spokesperson Jonee Lewis emphasized that even small details could be crucial for the investigation.
Julio Foolio's Musical Journey and Gang Feuds
Julio Foolio, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, gained prominence in 2018 with his album '6toven'. Known for his raw and gritty musical style, his tracks 'Dead Opps Pt. 2' and 'Play With Me' have amassed millions of plays on Spotify. The rapper frequently referenced the violent realities of street life and gang conflicts in his music. He was associated with the KTA gang, which has a long-standing feud with the ATK gang, led by rapper Yungeen Ace.
In recent years, Julio Foolio had been involved in multiple violent incidents. In November 2021, he survived a shooting in Jacksonville, and in October 2023, he was shot in the foot during a dispute. Despite these events, he continued to release music, including his latest album 'Resurrection' in April. His death marks a tragic end to a promising career, leaving fans and the music community in mourning.
- The festive weekend organized for Julio Foolio's 26th birthday turned into a tragedy when the rapper was killed in an ambush. According to American media, he had posted videos of the party on social media and invited his followers to join by sending him a private message for the address. Due to noise complaints, the police shut down the party, leading to his eviction from the Airbnb and subsequent check-in at the Holiday Inn.
- Julio Foolio's lawyer, Fusco Lewis, has requested privacy for the rapper's family during this difficult time. The police are actively investigating the shooting and have asked the public to provide any information that could assist in solving the case.
