Police appeal for witnesses after Takeoff shot dead in Houston

Houston Police Department (HPD) has called for witnesses to come forward after former Migos rapper Takeoff was fatally shot at a private party.

The 28-year-old rapper was killed at a party at 810 Billiards & Bowling, Downtown Houston in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Shortly after footage and images from the scene flooded social media, showing attendees fleeing after gunfire broke out.

Despite videos showing crowds at the time of the shooting, the HPD say they have "few leads" thus far as to the identity of the shooter.

HPD Chief Troy Finner said in a news conference: “I just want to say something to our city, Houston, and every brother and sister in the neighbourhoods.

“I’m calling you to action – to step up. There were 40 people at least at this event and people left possibly out of fear,” he continued. “I ask you one thing, and I want this to resonate with everybody. What if it was your brother? Your son? You will want somebody to step up, so please step up.”

Houston’s Mayor, Sylvester Turner also called for witnesses to come forward. He said: “This was a private party last night of about 40 people. In that group, somebody or the people know who the actual shooter or shooters were.

“Let me just ask, like it has already been asked, that anyone who has information on the shooter/shooters to provide that information to HPD and let us solve this situation,” he added.

Migos’ label Quality Control Music has shared a statement on social media about Takeoff’s death: “It is with broken hearts and deep sadness that we mourn the loss of our beloved brother Kirsnick Khari Ball, known to the world as Takeoff.

"Senseless violence and a stray bullet has taken another life from this world and we are devastated. Please respect his family and friends as we all continue to process this monumental loss.”

Takeoff was one third of rap trio Migos alongside Quavo and offset. The group,who split up earlier this year, were known for hit singles including Bad and Boujee, Look At My Dab and Versace – as well as their distinctive staccato triplet style, known commonly as the “Migos Flow”.

Isaac Muk is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter