Rapper OG Mako died surrounded by his family in a Los Angeles hospital 16 days after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was only 32 years old.
According to reports, the rapper was found with a gunshot wound to the head and was hospitalized on December 12th. TMZ.
A neighbor heard gunshots and called police. When officers arrived, they reported finding a gun next to the rapper's body.
Mako (real name Benedict Thiajulam Ihesiba Jr.) burst onto the scene in 2014 with his top song “U Guessed It,” which has been viewed over 75 million times on YouTube as of this writing.
The following year, he was selected to XXL's 2015 Freshman Class. However, in 2016, Mako suffered near-fatal injuries in a traffic accident, lost most of the vision in his right eye, and was forced to undergo treatment for several months. And in 2019 he contracted His face and head were affected by necrotizing fasciitis, a flesh-eating disease that nearly killed him.
“I was very scared. I didn't know what was going to happen. I didn't know if I was going to lose my whole face. I almost did,” he said at the time.
In the wake of his battle with the disease, he announced his retirement from the music industry, but his plans were never implemented. Just last year, he released a self-titled album, and in November he released a new single, “Shawty.”
The Atlanta native's family confirmed his death Friday in an Instagram post.
“It is with great sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Ben, known to the world as the OG Mako,” the family said in a statement. “His life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and boundless love. Through his music, passion, and unyielding spirit, he touched the lives of many and left a lasting impact. Ta.”
“While we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived, a life that will continue to inspire and uplift others,” the family added. “Mako's influence, both as an artist and as a human being, will forever remain etched in our hearts.”
“If you would like to send your condolences, share a memory, or connect with the family, please contact us through this account. Your support means more than words can express.”
“Thank you to all of Mako's fans, friends and supporters for being by his side throughout his journey. Today we celebrate an extraordinary life in every way,” the message concluded.
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