two dead after shooting at Cousin Stizz concert; rapper issues statement

Boston rapper Cousin Stizz is on tour now in support of his major label debut One Night Only, and at last night’s (11/12) stop at The Masquerade in Atlanta, a shooting left two dead. Atlanta Journal Constituion reports that Atlanta police officer Lisa Bender said two people got “rowdy” and climbed onto the stage in between sets, and that “another patron took issue and an argument ensued.” Police say that patron then pulled out a pistol and shot the two “rowdy” fans on stage, and then also fired toward the ground and “most likely” hit the other victims at that time.

The crowd then ran towards the exit, causing two people to collapse when going up a flight of stairs. Bender added, “The suspected shooter, still armed, was witnessed by unarmed security but was not successfully detained.”

One victim died on the scene, and the second was pronounced dead at Grady Memorial Hospital. Two others were injured but are stable.

Cousin Stizz also issued a statement, saying he is “completely heartbroken” and adding “I’ve always called my shows family reunions because they’re never anything but fun, safe, good vibes and positivity. I’m in shock and at a loss of words for the senseless violence.” Here’s his full statement: