Emerging Chicago-based rapper
According to the Chicago Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 3:58 a.m. when two vehicles approached the victim. Occupants of both vehicles opened fire on the rapper, who was seated in the driver's seat of a vehicle at the time. The suspects subsequently fled the scene. Responding officers provided medical assistance for gunshot wounds to the victim's chest and shoulder, but he was declared deceased at the location.
Investigation and Official Details
While the Chicago Police Department has not formally released the identity of the victim in official statements, dispatch audio from the scene identified the individual as Mikquale Cooper, born August 6, 2004. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting remains ongoing, and authorities have provided limited information regarding potential suspects or motives.
The rapper had recently celebrated his 22nd birthday in August, marking the occasion with the release of his latest project, Get Back or Die Trying. The album featured a collaboration with fellow artist BloodHound Lil Jeff, who also died earlier in 2024. In the hours preceding the shooting, Q50 had been active on social media, sharing an Instagram story that featured music by the artist EST Gee.
Industry Recognition and Tributes
Following reports of his death, figures within the hip-hop industry expressed their condolences. The Rolling Loud festival, where Q50 performed earlier this year in Orlando, Florida, issued a tribute to the artist on Sunday. Additionally, media personality DJ Vlad shared a statement on the social media platform X, noting that he had interviewed the rapper last year and describing him as a notably media-trained artist for his age. DJ Akademiks also acknowledged the loss, posting a brief tribute to the late performer.
Throughout 2024, Q50 had gained increasing recognition within the music scene. Beyond his recent album, he released the single Head Taps in late August and garnered attention earlier in the year for the track Don't Blink or Stare, which featured collaborations with BloodHound Lil Jeff and CEO Trayle. As of now, no further details regarding the investigation or memorial arrangements have been disclosed.
