Rapper Lil Loaded has passed away at age 20
Dallas, Texas – The rap music world has lost an up-and-coming young talent.
Lil Loaded, whose given name was Dashawn Robertson, passed away at just 20-years-old on Monday.
His attorney, Ashkan Mehryari, confirmed to NBC News that he died by suicide.
"He had a very bright and promising music career ahead of him," Mehryari said.
The rapper's song 6locc 6a6y was a viral hit after its release in 2019, racking up more than 29 million views on YouTube.
Just last week, the song was given a gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America.
He later signed with Epic Records and released several singles, mixtapes, and a full length album, A Demon In 6lue, in 2020. Another popular hit, Gang Unit, received over 39 million YouTube views and solidified the artist's dedicated fan base.
The Texan was facing personal struggles that included a manslaughter charge after the murder of one of his best friends, Khalil Walker, on October 25.
According to reports from the Sherriff's Department and court documents, Lil Loaded was accused of causing his friend's death by shooting him with a rifle while filming a music video.
"They try to make u look guilty wen u innocent regardless," he wrote of the incident on his Instagram.
He turned himself in after a warrant was issued for his arrest and spent time in jail, but was released on bond as he awaited trial.
The musician was scheduled to appear at a court hearing on Tuesday, however his attorney said that it had not been weighing on his client.
Mehyari also said he did not see the rapper's death coming and called it "very tragic."
On Friday, Lil Loaded's final Instagram post showed gratitude to his supporters for being the "dopest fanbase on earth."
With the news of his passing, the comments were flooded with fan messages honoring the artist gone too soon.
If you or someone you know need help, please contact the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 for free and confidential support.
Cover photo: Screenshot/Instagram/lil_loaded