AKA Cause Of Death, Tributes Pour In

The multi-award winning South African rapper was shot and killed Friday night (February 10) outside Wish restaurant in Florida, Durban, South Africa.

AKA is dead. The multi-award winning South African rapper and another unidentified individual were shot and killed Friday night (February 10) outside a popular restaurant on Florida Road in Durban, South Africa. 

South African police officials say AKA, 35, had been walking to his car shortly after 10 p.m. when two armed individuals approached from across the street and fired several shots at close range before running away.

“I can confirm that two men were killed and one of them is a well-known rapper. Police will not be releasing any names of the victims yet until a full investigation is completed,”said  law enforcement spokesperson Robert Netshiunda.

It’s still unclear what the motive behind the shooting was, but his parents Tony and Lynn Forbes confirmed the “untimely and tragic passing” of their son in a press statement.

“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,” the statement read. “They also asked for compassion and prayers from the public  as they deal with the loss. 

“We thank you for the love and compassion we have received thus far, and ask you to continue to keep us in your prayers.”

Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, known professionally as AKA was a popular South African rapper, and one of the most influential rappers in Africa. Born in Cape Town on January 28, 1988, AKA began his music career as a producer and member of the rap group Entity alongside Vice Versa and Greyhound. He ultimately found success as a solo artist with the release of his 2011 breakthrough single Victory Lap. The song rang beyond the shores of South Africa and propelled AKA to mainstream acclaim. 

He released his debut album Altar Ego in 2011, which also featured other songs such as “When I’M Gone” and “Bang” featuring Khuli Chana. 

During his time on earth, AKA released four studio albums and was preparing to release his fifth album titled Mass Country on February 24. The “Fela In Versace” rapper also collaborated with several A-list artists across the A continent including Burna Boy. He is survived by his parents, and 5-year-old daughter Kairo, who he had with D.J. Zinhle.

Following the tragic news of his death, social media was flooded with prayers and condolences for his family 

“Rest my brother … this hurts. Thinking about your beautiful daughter and loved ones in general. Thank you for the good times and laughs … I always enjoyed working with you,” wrote Nandi Madida.

“Long Live Super Mega. You changed my life and had always showed up for me. Today is painful. Crying and praying for your loved ones,” tweeted Rouge. 

Veteran Ghanian rapper Sarkodie wrote, “We sympathize with the family,” later adding, “may the almighty keep you safe brother. A very heavy one for us all.”

Nigerian rapper Blaqbonez wrote “The AKA news has my heart so heavy, i was in bed sad and scared at 5am, the world is such a crazy place right now. RIP.”

American rapper Bas also shared his tribute. 

“Damn this f-ckin tragic as hell. South Africa I’m so sorry for your loss. @akaworldwide always showed me love and hospitality every time we crossed paths. Always welcomed me with open arms. Rest easy king.”

“Sad News Yesterday…Rest up Brother, SUPAMEGA,” wrote Nasty C on Twitter. The two recently teamed up for Lemons. 

AKA Cause Of Death: How Did AKA Die?

According to reports from South African media, AKA, born Kiernan Jarryd Forbes died from multiple gun shot wounds on Friday (February 10) in Durban, South Africa. 

In a statement to TimesLive, ALS paramedic Garrith Jamieson explained that they responded to a shooting incident involving multiple individuals at around 10.15pm on Friday.

“On arrival, paramedics met total chaos and a scene where two men, believed to be in their late 30s, sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics assisted the men and unfortunately the first male had sustained multiple gun shot wounds and showed no signs of life and was declared deceased at the scene.”

A second male, who was later identified as AKA’s close friend Tebello Motsoane, 34, was found in critical condition and died due to extensive injuries.

SA police are currently in search of the shooter and have requested the public to come up with any information that could help them solve the case. 

“No amount of words will be fit enough to express our deepest condolences to his family, business associates, the entertainment industry and his fans,” read a ANC statement about his passing. 

The ANC also claims AKA’s killer is well known within the community of Florida. “The murderer is a community member. We are encouraging anyone with information to co-operate with law enforcement agencies. It is a fact that some of those who are involved in such crimes are known by certain community members. We must not allow one individual to disgrace all of us as peace-loving South Africans. All spheres of the ANC government must give strong support to the police and encourage them to act firmly and decisively to protect lives, property and the dignity of our nation.”