South African Rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes Dead At 35
Popular South African rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes has reportedly been fatally shot in Durban, South Africa on Friday (Feb. 10).
According to BBC News, Forbes, 35, was killed alongside Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, a close friend, chef and entrepreneur. They were reportedly en route to a nightclub for a performance.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda informed the outlet that AKA and Tibz were walking to their vehicle when two armed men approached them and shot them within close distance, before fleeing the scene on foot.
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AKA’s parents — Tony and Lynn Forbes — posted a statement across their son’s social media accounts:
“It is with extreme sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved son, and confirm his untimely and tragic passing on the evening of February 10, 2023. We are awaiting further details from the Durban Police.”
AKA has been celebrated nationally, including several nominations for a BET Award. He began his music career as a part of the trio rap group Entity before embarking on his solo career endeavors.
Just hours before his untimely death, he posted about his forthcoming album Mass Country being released on Feb. 27.
The aforementioned social media postings garnished well over 20,000 comments on Instagram, filled with condolences and broken heart emojis.
“Crushed,” one user wrote.
"To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kairo," his parents said.
