A death investigation underway in Virginia is reportedly focused on a fatal self-inflicted wound suffered by a teen rapper. Some outlets have alleged that the incident was caught on camera.
According to Billboard, a spokesperson for the Suffolk Police Department confirmed Tuesday morning that an incident that occurred at 10 p.m. May 15 resulted in the death of a 17-year-old, that it involved a “self-inflicted gunshot wound,” and that the victim died of their injuries at a local hospital.
While the spokesperson did not provide the victim’s name as he was a juvenile, Billboard identified the deceased as rapper Rylo Huncho. A verified Spotify artist, Huncho’s popular songs include “DOA” and “Money Getta.”
The Direct reported that Rylo Huncho is the stage name of Raleigh A. Freeman, III. An obituary listing from Crocker Funeral Home in Suffolk said that Freeman passed away May 16 at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
A GoFundMe page cited by both The Direct and Billboard said that the teen died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. It said he was his mother’s only son and that his family is still trying to determine how the shooting happened. As of Tuesday afternoon, it had raised $3,020 towards a $15,000 goal.
“His death was confirmed by one of his associates, Twin Porter, on Facebook, and a GoFundMe has been set up by Rylo Huncho’s cousin in support of the musician’s grieving family,” said The Direct.
Billboard reported that a preliminary investigation indicates that Huncho’s death was accidental. However, the investigation is ongoing.
In a TikTok video cited in a New York Post report, the rapper allegedly appears to be dancing with a handgun, its green laser apparently pointed at his head. He is then apparently shown pulling the trigger and falling off-frame. Authorities would not confirm or comment on the Post report, Billboard said. The Daily Mail also shared Instagram images that were allegedly from the video.