Unraveling The Truth: Who Were Pop Smoke Killers?

The music world was shaken to its core on February 19, 2020, with the tragic news of Bashar Barakah Jackson, better known as Pop Smoke, passing away. A rising star in the drill music scene, his untimely death at just 20 years old left fans and the industry reeling. The question that immediately arose, echoing across headlines and social media, was: who were Pop Smoke killers, and what led to such a devastating loss?

This article delves into the harrowing details surrounding his death, the extensive investigation that followed, and the legal proceedings aimed at bringing those responsible to justice. We will explore the life of an artist who was on the cusp of global superstardom and the profound impact his legacy continues to have, even as the search for accountability for his murder progressed.

Table of Contents

• The Rise of Pop Smoke: A Brief Biography
  • Early Life and Musical Beginnings
• The Tragic Night: Details Surrounding Pop Smoke's Death
• The Investigation Unfolds: Identifying Pop Smoke Killers
  • Evidence and Arrests
• The Accused: Profiles of the Alleged Pop Smoke Killers
• Legal Proceedings: The Road to Justice for Pop Smoke
  • Trial Developments and Verdicts
• Motives and Theories: Why Was Pop Smoke Targeted?
• The Aftermath: Pop Smoke's Legacy and Fan Engagement
  • Pop Culture Memorabilia and Fandom
• Preventing Future Tragedies: Lessons from the Pop Smoke Case

The Rise of Pop Smoke: A Brief Biography

Bashar Barakah Jackson, known professionally as Pop Smoke, was born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York. His brief yet impactful career saw him emerge as the face of Brooklyn drill music, a subgenre of hip-hop characterized by its aggressive beats and raw, street-oriented lyrics. Pop Smoke's distinctive deep, gravelly voice and charismatic presence quickly set him apart, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

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His breakout hit, "Welcome to the Party," released in April 2019, became an undeniable anthem, propelling him into the mainstream. The track garnered remixes from established artists like Nicki Minaj and Skepta, solidifying his status as a formidable new voice in music. He followed this success with his debut mixtape, "Meet the Woo," later that year, which further showcased his unique sound and storytelling ability. Pop Smoke's music often painted vivid pictures of life in Canarsie, Brooklyn, resonating with listeners who appreciated his authenticity and unfiltered narratives.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Pop Smoke's journey into music was relatively swift. Growing up in Canarsie, he initially harbored aspirations of becoming a basketball player. However, a pivot towards music in 2018 quickly revealed his natural talent and a raw energy that was perfectly suited for the burgeoning drill scene. He began experimenting with music, recording tracks in makeshift studios, and soon caught the attention of producers and industry insiders. His sound was distinct, blending elements of UK drill with a distinctly New York swagger, creating a fusion that felt both familiar and refreshingly new. His rapid ascent was a testament to his undeniable talent and the hunger of his audience for a fresh, authentic voice.

The Tragic Night: Details Surrounding Pop Smoke's Death

The night Pop Smoke lost his life unfolded in a rented home in Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles. He was staying at a property owned by The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Teddi Mellencamp Arroyave and her husband, Edwin Arroyave. In the early hours of February 19, 2020, around 4:30 AM, masked intruders reportedly broke into the residence. Reports from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) indicated that multiple individuals entered the home.

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Initial reports were chaotic, with conflicting information emerging about the number of suspects and the exact sequence of events. However, it was confirmed that Pop Smoke sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the home invasion. Paramedics were called to the scene and transported him to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The swiftness and brutality of the attack immediately raised questions about whether it was a targeted hit, a robbery gone wrong, or something else entirely. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner later confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the torso. The investigation into who were Pop Smoke killers began immediately, becoming a high-profile case that captivated public attention.

The Investigation Unfolds: Identifying Pop Smoke Killers

The LAPD launched an intensive investigation into Pop Smoke's murder. Detectives worked tirelessly to piece together the events of that fateful night, sifting through evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing potential witnesses. The initial lack of clear suspects and motives made the case challenging, but law enforcement remained committed to finding Pop Smoke killers.

Early theories ranged from a targeted assassination by rivals to a botched robbery. As the investigation progressed, authorities began to focus on the latter, with evidence suggesting that the intruders were primarily motivated by theft, specifically targeting Pop Smoke's valuables, including his jewelry. The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division took the lead, a testament to the serious nature of the crime and the high profile of the victim.

Evidence and Arrests

Months after the tragic incident, significant breakthroughs were made. In July 2020, the LAPD announced the arrest of five individuals in connection with Pop Smoke's murder. These arrests were the culmination of extensive detective work, including forensic analysis, digital evidence, and witness statements. The suspects included three adult males and two juvenile males.

According to law enforcement, the intruders had learned about Pop Smoke's location through social media posts, specifically an Instagram post that inadvertently revealed the address of the Hollywood Hills rental. This detail underscored the dangers celebrities face in the digital age, where even seemingly innocuous posts can provide critical information to criminals. The arrests marked a crucial step towards understanding who were Pop Smoke killers and bringing them to justice, providing some measure of relief to his grieving family and fans.

The Accused: Profiles of the Alleged Pop Smoke Killers

Following the arrests, the identities of some of the alleged Pop Smoke killers began to emerge, along with details about their alleged roles in the crime. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed charges against the individuals, including murder, robbery, and burglary. The accused were identified as Corey Walker, Keandre Rodgers, and Jaquan Murphy, along with two unnamed juveniles due to their age at the time of the crime.

Court documents and police statements painted a grim picture of the events. It was alleged that the group had planned to rob Pop Smoke, believing he possessed high-value items. During the confrontation, Pop Smoke was reportedly shot and killed. Corey Walker, one of the adult defendants, later faced additional charges, including special circumstance allegations that made him eligible for the death penalty or life in prison without parole, though the death penalty is rarely sought in California. The legal proceedings would aim to establish the full extent of each individual's involvement and determine their culpability in the death of the rising star.

Legal Proceedings: The Road to Justice for Pop Smoke

The legal battle to secure justice for Pop Smoke has been a complex and protracted process, typical of high-profile murder cases involving multiple defendants and extensive evidence. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office took on the formidable task of prosecuting the alleged Pop Smoke killers, navigating through various legal challenges, including motions, delays, and the complexities of trying both adult and juvenile defendants.

The proceedings have involved numerous court appearances, witness testimonies, and the presentation of forensic evidence. The goal of the prosecution has been to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused individuals were responsible for Pop Smoke's death and the preceding home invasion. The defense teams, conversely, have worked to challenge the prosecution's evidence, raise doubts, and protect the rights of their clients. The judicial process, while slow, is designed to ensure a fair trial for all parties involved, even as the public eagerly awaits a definitive resolution to the question of who were Pop Smoke killers.

Trial Developments and Verdicts

As of recent updates, there have been significant developments in the case. One of the juvenile defendants, who was 15 at the time of the murder, pleaded guilty to murder and robbery in juvenile court in April 2023. During his testimony, he admitted to shooting Pop Smoke during the robbery, stating that the group had intended to steal Pop Smoke's diamond chain and watch. He also claimed that the fatal shot was fired during a struggle. This plea and testimony provided a crucial piece of the puzzle, offering a direct account of the events from one of the participants.

Another juvenile defendant also pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and robbery. These pleas from the juvenile defendants mark a major step towards closure in the case, shedding light on the roles played by some of the alleged Pop Smoke killers. The cases against the adult defendants, including Corey Walker, have continued to move through the legal system, with ongoing hearings and preparations for trial. The legal process, while slow, is designed to ensure justice is served for Pop Smoke and his family.

Motives and Theories: Why Was Pop Smoke Targeted?

From the outset, the motive behind Pop Smoke's murder was a central point of speculation and investigation. While initial theories floated the possibility of gang-related violence or a targeted hit, the unfolding investigation and subsequent court proceedings have largely pointed towards a different primary motive: robbery.

Evidence presented by the prosecution, particularly the testimony of the juvenile who pleaded guilty, suggests that the intruders were aware of Pop Smoke's presence and believed he possessed valuable items, specifically high-end jewelry. The group allegedly targeted the Hollywood Hills home with the intent to steal. The tragic outcome, a fatal shooting, appears to have occurred during the course of this robbery, possibly as a result of a struggle or an attempt to resist.

This scenario aligns with the broader pattern of criminals targeting celebrities or individuals perceived to be wealthy, often relying on social media to ascertain their whereabouts and possessions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can arise from public visibility and the importance of personal security, particularly for those in the public eye. The focus on robbery as the primary motive helps to clarify the circumstances surrounding why Pop Smoke was targeted, moving away from more speculative theories.

The Aftermath: Pop Smoke's Legacy and Fan Engagement

Despite his tragically short career, Pop Smoke left an indelible mark on the music industry and pop culture. His influence continued to grow even after his passing, with his posthumous album, "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon," topping charts worldwide and cementing his status as a cultural icon. The album featured collaborations with major artists and showcased his versatility beyond the drill sound, proving his potential for broader appeal. His music continues to resonate, inspiring new artists and maintaining a strong presence on streaming platforms.

Beyond the music, Pop Smoke's distinctive style, catchphrases, and raw authenticity have cemented his place in the hearts of his fans. Tributes poured in from across the globe, from fellow musicians to everyday listeners, all mourning the loss of a talent taken too soon. His legacy is not just in the records he broke or the charts he topped, but in the cultural shift he spearheaded, bringing Brooklyn drill to a global stage and influencing a generation of artists. The ongoing pursuit of justice for Pop Smoke killers remains a significant part of his story, as fans and family seek closure and accountability.

Pop Culture Memorabilia and Fandom

Beyond music, artists live on through their cultural impact, often seen in the vibrant world of pop culture merchandise. Fans connect with their idols through various forms, from apparel to highly sought-after collectibles. For instance, the broader pop culture landscape thrives on items like Funko Pops, vinyl figures, and other memorabilia. The official Funko EU site, for example, serves as a central hub for all things Funko Pop, Vinyls, and Loungefly, including exclusives and accessories, shipping to the UK and Europe. It underscores the idea that "everyone is a fan of something," allowing individuals to bring home their favorite new releases with figures, collectibles, games, accessories, keychains, and more.

PopMarket, another destination for pop culture collectibles, figurines, vinyl figures, board games, video games, turntables, home arcades, and all things fun, often offers free shipping on orders $50 or more. You can "pop over" to explore Funko Pops, discovering vinyl figures from movies, TV, music, cartoons, and more. Some platforms even offer the unique opportunity to make your very own fully customized Funko Pop, creating a unique collectible of yourself or a loved one with pop art aesthetics. Major retailers like Target also offer a wide assortment of Funko products, including toys, vinyl figures, vinyl soda, wacky wobbler bobble heads, pocket pops, plush, vinyl idolz, exclusives, and mystery minis at their Funko online store, with options for same-day delivery, drive-up, or order pickup, and free standard shipping with $35 orders. This vast market demonstrates how deeply fans engage with culture, ensuring legacies endure and providing tangible ways to celebrate their favorite figures, even those who, like Pop Smoke, are no longer with us.

Preventing Future Tragedies: Lessons from the Pop Smoke Case

The tragic death of Pop Smoke serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by public figures, particularly in the age of social media. One of the key takeaways from the investigation into Pop Smoke killers is the critical importance of digital security and privacy. The alleged use of social media posts to pinpoint his location highlights the need for celebrities and their teams to exercise extreme caution when sharing personal information online. Geotagging, visible backgrounds, and even seemingly innocuous details can inadvertently provide criminals with vital intelligence.

Beyond individual responsibility, the case also underscores the broader challenges of home security for high-profile individuals. Enhanced security measures, including professional security details, robust alarm systems, and careful vetting of rental properties, are crucial. Furthermore, the incident sheds light on the societal issue of opportunistic crime, where individuals are targeted for their perceived wealth. Addressing the root causes of such crimes through community programs, education, and law enforcement efforts remains vital. While the legal system continues its work to hold Pop Smoke killers accountable, the lessons learned from this devastating event can hopefully contribute to preventing similar tragedies in the future, safeguarding other public figures from similar fates.

Conclusion

The loss of Pop Smoke was a profound blow to the music industry and his legion of fans. His meteoric rise and innovative sound promised a bright future that was tragically cut short. The journey to uncover who were Pop Smoke killers has been a long and arduous one, marked by painstaking investigation and complex legal proceedings. While some level of accountability has been achieved through the guilty pleas of juvenile defendants, the full resolution of the case continues to unfold.

Pop Smoke's legacy, however, remains vibrant and enduring. His music continues to inspire, his influence on drill music is undeniable, and his memory is cherished by a global fanbase. As we reflect on his life and the circumstances of his passing, it serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of seeking justice. We invite you to share your thoughts and memories of Pop Smoke in the comments below. What impact did his music have on you? Your engagement helps keep his spirit alive. For more insights into music, culture, and current events, explore other articles on our site.