Chicago rapper King Von was among three people who were killed in a shooting involving police outside a club Friday in Atlanta.
The incident started about 3:20 a.m. when two groups of men argued outside of Monaco Hookah Lounge, 255 W. Trinity Ave. SW., and shot at each other, according to the Atlanta police.
Two off-duty officers who were in uniform working an extra job at the lounge and an on-duty officer who was patrolling nearby confronted the groups and fired at them, the police said.
“Three of the persons shot in the incident have died as a result of their wounds, and three others are being treated in area hospitals,” police said. “The officers were not injured.”
Police confirmed that King Von, whose real name is Dayvon Bennett, was among those killed. The others’ names weren’t released.
It was unclear whether anyone was struck by the officers’ gunfire, but police said detectives believe Bennett was shot during the initial confrontation between the two groups of males.
Police said they expect to file charges against two people detained at the scene.
Police also said King Von was not at the scene but arrived at a hospital shortly after the shooting in a private vehicle.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was asked to investigate the officer-involved shooting.
“Part of the investigations will include determining which individuals were struck by gunfire from the suspects and whether any were struck by gunfire from the officers,” police said.
Several people in the hip-hop community have posted messages of condolences on social media, including fellow Chicago emcee Chance the Rapper.
Wow. This year was so tough. rip von God bless him and his family I can’t believe it
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) November 6, 2020
Last month, King Von released his album “Welcome to O’Block,” a nod to the area around 64th Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive on the South Side where he was raised. The album featured appearances from Moneybagg Yo, Polo G and Lil Durk.
King Von was 26, according to publicist Erin Ryan.
“He was a devoted father, a deeply loyal friend and a man who took care of his people before himself,” Ryan said in a written statement. “We are heartbroken for his family, his friends, his team, and his fans. Long live King Von.”
Contributing: AP
