Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio, born Charles Jones, was fatally shot in an ambush in Tampa on Sunday. This is according to his attorney Lewis Fusco. Jones, 26, who celebrated his birthday on Friday, was staying at an Airbnb when police shut down the party due to overcrowding, Fusco said.
The rapper and his group then moved to a Holiday Inn hotel, where Jones was ambushed in the parking lot. “The victim in this morning’s shooting is believed to be Charles Jones,” confirmed Tampa Police Public Information Officer Jonee’ Lewis. Official identification is pending from the Medical Examiner’s Office. No arrests have been made.
Three others were injured in the incident and are in stable condition, Tampa police reported. Social media has been flooded with tributes, including messages from a woman claiming to be his girlfriend. Jones was known for his drill rap videos featuring controversial lyrics about rival gang murders in Jacksonville. In the past three years, he had survived two shootings in Jacksonville.
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Fusco issued a statement requesting privacy for Jones’ family. “While these events involving our client, Mr Charles Jones, have been disclosed by law enforcement, we are unable to provide further comments at this time until additional details become public record.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office commented on potential gun violence concerns, emphasising their commitment to ensuring the city’s safety and the thorough examination of ongoing investigations.
“Our dedicated officers and detectives do not cease to ensure and provide safety and security for our city which will always be of paramount importance as we aim to deter any potential issues that may arise in the foreseeable future. Any investigations of a deceased person of interest, subject, and/or suspect, if active will continue to be thoroughly examined until all efforts have been exhausted.” the sheriff said.
