Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio, whose real name is Charles Jones, was fatally shot in Tampa, Florida, on June 23, 2024, while celebrating his birthday. The incident marks a tragic end to a life marred by violence, a recurring theme in Foolio’s career and personal life.
Foolio was known for his music which often depicted real-life gang rivalries and violence, making him a controversial figure in the rap community. His songs frequently referenced the deaths of gang rivals and glorified gun violence, which, in turn, made him a target of multiple shooting attempts over the years.
The shooting occurred in Tampa while Foolio was out celebrating his birthday. According to initial reports, he was ambushed by unidentified assailants who fired multiple rounds at him. Foolio was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact time of the incident has not been disclosed by authorities.
Law enforcement officials are currently investigating the shooting but have not released any information about potential suspects. They have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Foolio’s death is the latest in a series of violent encounters he has faced. In November 2021, he was involved in a shootout in Jacksonville’s Riverside area, where his vehicle was sprayed with bullets. Foolio claimed self-defense, stating that he returned fire after being ambushed. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office recovered multiple shell casings and firearms from the scene, but no arrests were made.
In July 2020, Foolio was shot in Houston, Texas, an incident that he later referenced in his music and on social media. Despite being shot, Foolio survived and even went live on Instagram from his hospital bed to address the shooting.
Foolio’s music and public persona often mirrored the violence he experienced. Songs like “Who I Smoke” by rival rapper Yungeen Ace referenced Foolio’s shootings, escalating the tension between rival gangs in Jacksonville. Foolio, a member of the KTA gang, frequently found himself at odds with members of the ATK gang, led by Yungeen Ace.
The news of Foolio’s death has sent shockwaves through the rap community and his fanbase. On social media, fans and fellow artists have expressed their condolences and disbelief. One of Foolio’s parents took to his Instagram account to ask for prayers, stating, “Keep Foolio, my son, in y’all prayers he was shot last night in his hating city”.
As the investigation continues, the music and broader communities are left grappling with the loss of a young artist whose life and career were deeply intertwined with the violent narratives he depicted.
