American rapper Nipsey Hussle has been shot dead in Los Angeles, aged 33.
LA Mayor Eric Garcetti confirmed the news on Twitter, writing: "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."
Advert
Nipsey Hussle, real name Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was nominated for Best Rap Album at this year's Grammy awards.
Victory Lap debuted at number four on the Billboard top 100 and featured collaborations with Diddy, CeeLo Green and Kendrick Lamar.
During an interview with the recording academy on the night of the Grammys, Nipsey said: "It's my debut album so for my first one [to be nominated] out the gate, it's like, it was overwhelming a little bit. It was ... inspiring, humbling,"
He tweeted just hours before the shooting about his 'enemies'.
Having strong enemies is a blessing.
Los Angeles Police added: "At approximately 3:20 pm there was a shooting reported in the area of Slauson Ave and Crenshaw Blvd. 3 victims were transported to a local hospital where one was pronounced deceased.
Advert
"We have no suspect info at this time and will provide more details as they become available."
In an interview with the LA Times, Nipsey revealed his upbringing was intense.
"I grew up in gang culture. We dealt with death, with murder. It was like living in a war zone, where people die on these blocks and everybody is a little bit immune to it.
Advert
"I guess they call it post-traumatic stress, when you have people that have been at war for such a long time. I think L.A. suffers from that because it's not normal yet we embrace it like it is after a while."
Since news of his death was announced, people across the entertainment industry have been paying tribute to the rapper.
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
RIP NIPSEY HUSSLE
Hundreds of people have gathered at the location where the rapper was gunned down to remember his life and music.
Advert
One man told the Los Angeles Times: "He did so much for our neighborhood. That's why I'm here today. This has to stop."
Community activist Malik Spellman also told the paper: "The man was instrumental in a lot of stuff. Fighting gentrification, trying to stop gang violence. The facts are: he was a good person."
He leaves behind his girlfriend, Lauren London, and two children.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Entertainment, Celebrity, News, Music