Rapper Julio Foolio, real name Charles Jones, was fatally shot early Sunday morning in Tampa while celebrating his 26th birthday. The shooting left a devastating scene, with victims being taken away on stretchers and cars riddled with bullet holes. TMZ obtained video footage capturing the aftermath of the incident, showing police taking command of the scene and paramedics tending to those injured in the gunfire.
Julio Foolio Face Off
In the series of clips, one person can be seen in pain as paramedics roll them away from the Holiday Inn toward an ambulance. According to police, three other people were injured in the shooting that killed Foolio, but they are expected to survive. The intensity of the shootout is evident from the condition of a black sedan at the scene, its front completely shot up.
The shooting occurred in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Tampa North on East Fowler Avenue just before 5 AM ET. Foolio, staying at the hotel after being kicked out of his Airbnb for exceeding the occupancy limit, was reportedly ambushed in the parking lot. Videos posted on social media by Foolio earlier in the evening showed him with a large group, indicating a night of celebration that tragically ended in violence.
Footage of Julio Foolio LIFELESS has been LEAKED since Yungen Ace dropped his disstrack.. 💀 pic.twitter.com/XQ8ChM6cDb
— God Of Clips (@GodOfClips_) June 24, 2024
The Tampa Police Department released a statement confirming that one person was killed and three others were injured in the shooting. While the deceased victim is believed to be Charles Jones, the Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to confirm the victim’s identity. The hotel was not evacuated, but police were on hand to assist any guests in need.
Julio Foolio, a prominent figure in the Jacksonville hip-hop scene, was known for his raw and unfiltered music. His songs, such as “Voo Doo,” “Dead Opps Pt. 2,” “I Hate You I Love You,” and “Play With Me,” resonated with many fans, earning him over 950,000 monthly listeners on streaming platforms. Foolio’s death has left a significant void in the music community, and his influence will be remembered by many.
On social media, Foolio had expressed excitement and gratitude about his birthday. “God thank you for allowing me to see another year & to celebrate another birthday,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). He also posted about his birthday celebrations on Instagram, sharing videos of the Airbnb and plans to continue the festivities at Teasers Gentlemen’s Club in Tampa the next day.
Foolio had previously spoken about the dangers he faced in his life. In April, he made an Instagram post claiming there had been “multiple attempts on my life,” and in a 2022 podcast, he recounted an incident where he was shot at while leaving a studio. Despite these challenges, he continued to pursue his passion for music and connect with his audience.
Julio Foolio’s girlfriend expressed her grief on X, writing, “Y’all took my boyfriend from me. I hate y’all & I won’t be the only one crying.” The loss has left his family, friends, and fans mourning the untimely death of a beloved artist.
The Tampa Police Department is asking the public to share any videos or information related to the incident by contacting them at 813-231-6130. The shooting remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the events leading up to the tragedy and all individuals involved.
Rest in peace, Julio Foolio. You will be deeply missed.