Stacey Abrams Calls Takeoff's Death a 'Tragic Loss' to Georgia

Stacey Abrams, the Democratic candidate for Georgia governor, called the recent death of hip-hop star Takeoff "heartbreaking news and a tragic loss" to her state.

Takeoff, a 28-year-old rapper who was best known as a member of the popular group Migos, was shot and killed early Tuesday outside a Houston bowling alley, the Houston Police Department confirmed in a press conference.

A member of the department said Takeoff, whose real name is Kirshnik Khari Ball, was confirmed dead at the scene of a business named 810 Billiards and Bowling. Houston Police Chief Troy Finner would not confirm if fellow Migos member Quavo was at the scene of the shooting.

The members of Migos grew up together in the suburbs of Atlanta. In her statement, Abrams highlighted the importance Takeoff's work had in Georgia's culture.

"This is heartbreaking news and a tragic loss to GA and the music industry. Born and raised in Gwinnett County, Kirshnik Khari Ball influenced Hip Hop and our Culture beyond measure," Abrams tweeted. "My condolences are with Takeoff's family, friends and all those who were inspired by his talent."

Takeoff released an album in early October with Quavo titled Only Built for Infinity Links. The group's third member, Offset, is rumored to have quit the group earlier this year, though his departure hasn't been confirmed.

Takeoff appeared with Quavo on the October 22 episode of the Drink Champs podcast, where they promoted their new album. Takeoff also discussed how he wanted recognition for his music skills while still living.

"Enough is enough. I'm chill, I'm laid back, but it's time to pop it. You know what I mean?" Takeoff told Drink Champs host N.O.R.E. when discussing his performance on the new album. "I mean, it's time to give me my flowers. I don't want them later when I ain't here. I want 'em right now."

Abrams is competing in a rematch of the 2018 gubernatorial election against the incumbent Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. Recent polls show the Republican with an edge over Abrams, but her campaign has spoken in recent days of preparing for the possibility of a runoff election after the November 8 midterms.

"We are working hard to win out right [but] we will also be ready for a runoff. We're readying ourselves for every post-election scenario," Lauren Groh-Wargo, Abrams' campaign manager, told The Hill. "Black voters are flexing their power, our Democratic coalition is flexing their power across the board, and we will continue to keep our foot on the gas."

Newsweek reached out to Takeoff's record company for comment.