Sheriff T.K. Waters has addressed the devastating death of local rapper Julio Foolio, saying authorities were working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
Foolio, whose real name is Charles Jones, is a well-known figure in the Jacksonville music scene. He was murdered on Sunday morning while celebrating his 26th birthday in Tampa.
The rapper was one of four individuals ambushed outside a Holiday Inn. Reports indicated that the tragic incident also left three others injured and hospitalized. The Tampa Police Department received a 911 call around 4:40 a.m. reporting the shooting at 11606 McKinley Drive.
Sheriff Waters made it clear that the police would not tolerate any retribution or acts of revenge in response to Foolio’s death. Emphasizing the need for calm and order, he stated that law enforcement is committed to preventing further violence.
Tampa police chief also speaks on Foolio’s murder
Later, Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw shared updates on the investigation. He assured the public that significant leads have been developed and arrests are imminent.
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The investigation is a collaborative effort involving the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, statewide and federal partners, including the ATF and FBI, and local prosecutor Susie Lopez.
Authorities are also scrutinizing social media posts for potential evidence, with indications that rival gang affiliations may be linked to the killing.
Fans mourn 26-year-old
Fans of Foolio are mourning his untimely death and expressing their grief online. Speculations are circulating about Yungeen Ace’s potential involvement, fueled by his recent release of a song titled “Do It” on the night of the shooting.
Given the longstanding feud between Yungeen Ace and Foolio, the lyrics have raised eyebrows, marked by tragic losses on both sides.
Foolio’s death is not just a loss for his family and friends but for the entire Jacksonville community. His attorney confirmed that before the shooting, Foolio had been removed from an Airbnb for exceeding its capacity, prompting him to relocate the celebration to the Holiday Inn, a decision that tragically led to the fatal encounter.
