Rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes was shot dead – along with another man – at a popular night spot in Florida Road, Durban on Friday night.
According to a first responder who spoke on condition of anonymity, Forbes was shot while standing on a pavement shortly after 22:00.
ALS Paramedics Medical Services spokesperson Garrith Jamieson said resuscitation efforts at the scene were unsuccessful.
Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, is the man who was reportedly killed alongside AKA. Tibz was AKA’s former manager, co-founder of the clothing brand Head Honcho & Showlove Consulting Founder.
Police are investigating a double murder. Initial police reports from the scene indicate AKA and Motsoane were leaving the establishment after dinner, when two unknown gunmen walked across the street and opened fire, killing them instantly.
In a statement, AKA’s parents Tony and Lynn Forbed expressed their “extreme sadness” at the loss of their son.
They are waiting for further details from Durban police.
“Our son was loved and he gave love in return. In this time of grief, we appeal for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family to decide on the upcoming days.
“To many, he was AKA, SUPERMEGA, BHOVA and many other names,” they said. But to them, he was Kiernan Jarryd Forbes – a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, and most importantly, a father to his daughter Kairo.
“We thank you for the love and support we have received thus far and ask you to continue to keep us in your prayers and uplifted in the Lord,” the parents added.
AKA was supposed to perform in the city on Friday night. There were jovial scenes earlier in the evening in footage posted on Instagram as the rapper made a toast at a full table of friends.
The Rapper was also busy promoting his upcoming album, which was due to be released on 24 February.
https://t.co/Z0H8hMYWqN 🏆🇿🇦🌵 PRE ADD NOW!!! pic.twitter.com/vTg6hQczgl
— AKA (@akaworldwide) February 10, 2023
Haha now this is lit!! A roll-out ma hiiii!!! 👌🏾 I wonder what's next. Let's go MASS COUNTRY!! https://t.co/3iEfBw5ibC
— 💙Nubian Bonnie💙 (@NubianBella_Don) February 10, 2023
AKA’s tragic past
Ten months ago, AKA shared a special tribute to Anele “Nelli” Tembe on the first anniversary of her death.
Alongside a photo of his late fiancée, the South African rapper wrote: “I’ll remember this day for the rest of my life.”
“Every day, I pray for the healing of your family and my family. I hope one day we can all come together and pay our respects to you and your memory at the same place and at the same time.”
Tembe fell to her death from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in Loop Street in the early hours of 11 April 2021. She was 22.
Shortly after her death, BarLeader TV aired a sit-down interview with AKA. The rapper addressed Tembe’s death, rumours of substance abuse, and allegations that he had been physically violent during their relationship during the televised chat.
Tributes for AKA pouring in amid the shock of his death
the numbing shock upon hearing that aka has passed away💔🕊there are no words to express the sorrow of such an untimely death😭
my deepest condolences go out to his family, nadia, his friends, the megacy and most of all to kairo😢💔
he will be sorely missed#ripaka 💐🕊 pic.twitter.com/FFKZ9rO21l
— Lady Zamar (@Lady_Zamar) February 11, 2023
The loss of a young life is always difficult to comprehend and accept, particularly under such tragic circumstances💔 We lost so much talent and endless possibilities💔 Go well @akaworldwide, thank you for the music❤️#RIPAKA #RipLegend pic.twitter.com/HWWcpGd8yw
— FabAcademic 🏳️🌈 (@FabAcademic) February 11, 2023
Our hearts are shattered at the news of @akaworldwide’s sudden passing.
Your presence was always larger than life. It was an honour to host you at so many of our events over the years.
Sincere condolences to Kiernan’s friends & family & the Megacy 💔💔
RIP, Kiernan #RIPAKA pic.twitter.com/4qfKjqlDra
— Craig Green (@CraigusGreen) February 11, 2023
Rest in Peace my brother AKA 💔 Thank you for sharing your special gift with the world. I will always cherish the time , your timeless music and generosity. Sending love and prayers to your family 💐🕊 pic.twitter.com/RCO5BNmrCj
— TRESOR RIZIKI (@tresorofficial) February 11, 2023
