Tag: tragedy

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At Least 149 Dead After Halloween Stampede in Seoul

Seoul Stampede On Halloween, At Least 149 Dead
A street in Seoul during the stampede. Image source: Sky News.

A fun celebration turned horrific Saturday night when a crowd surged into an alley, causing a stampede in Seoul, South Korea.

The Deadly Night in Seoul

149 people, mainly teens and young adults, died in a stampede in Seoul, South Korea, this Halloween weekend. The tragic incident occurred when a massive crowd was funneled into a small alleyway. As a result, people started dying.

Furthermore, 65 more people died in the panic in the Itaewon district following the surge. Amongst the injured, 19 are in critical condition. Meaning the body count could continue to rise. Choi Sung-beom, leader of the Yongsan Fire Station, confirmed these details in a briefing yesterday.

The disaster comes to a newly reopened South Korea since the last three Halloween celebrations didn’t take place due to the COVID-19 epidemic.

Eyewitnesses report that the crowd had become angry and anxious the farther the evening went. Around 10:20 pm, the deadly stampede occurred.

Witnesses Speak

“A number of people fell during a Halloween festival, and we have a large number of casualties,” Choi stated. He also noted that many victims were young women and those near the nightclub.

Moon Ju-young, a key eyewitness, told Reuters things were clearly getting out of hand in the alleys before the stampede began. “It was at least more than 10 times crowded than usual,” he commented. 

Several witnesses also said police had difficulty controlling the crowd and maintaining order.

Videos captured during the disaster show countless partygoers squeezed into the thin alleyway, crushed and likely unable to breathe. Additional footage displays police and paramedics trying to aid countless unconscious victims.

Fire department officials claim people attempted to escape into the alley when it was already filled to capacity. This caused those at the top of the slope to fall, creating a domino effect. A nearby building turned into a temporary morgue to accommodate the sudden large amount of bodies. According to witnesses, dozens of bodies came into the area for further identification by government officials.

Sending Prayers

“You would see big crowds at Christmas and fireworks … but this was several ten-folds bigger than any of that,” 21-year-old Park Jung-hoon told Reuters. Among South Korea’s districts, Itaewon is most popular with young people and foreigners due to its lively party scene. However, in recent years Itaewon businesses have been declining due to lingering fear of covid 19.

Two of the 149 confirmed dead were American tourists. The investigation to find the exact cause of the stampede is still ongoing at this time.

President Joe Biden released a statement sending his condolences Saturday (Oct 29). “Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones in Seoul. We grieve with the people of the Republic of Korea,” the president stated. “And send our best wishes for a quick recovery to all those who were injured…The Alliance between our two countries has never been more vibrant or more vital – and the ties between our people are stronger than ever. The United States stands with the Republic of Korea during this tragic time.”

Written by Dreema Carrington

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‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is A Day Of Importance For Rapper Jay Park

jay park

Taking the time to respect past events will undoubtedly be seen as an admirable act. According to American rapper Jay Park, Aug 15 marks the freedom of Korea from Japan in 1945. It also led to the creation of the Korean government, which replaced the previous government’s law.

‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is Discussed In-Depth By Jay Park

On Aug 15, Park posted a clip to the music video for H1GHR Music’s “DNA” on his Instagram to honor Korea’s Liberation Day. The video was in English and had a long caption.

“Resources and artifacts stolen from or destroyed,” Jay posted.

According to the Edmonds-born rapper, the Korean culture and traditions were in danger of being destroyed, and they were at risk of extinction. In addition, there was once a prohibition on speaking the Korean language throughout much of the country. Therefore, people of Korean descent were forced to change their last names. Certain countries operate bizarrely. All individuals are entitled to keep the name they were given at birth, regardless of their nationality or heritage.

Koreans Underwent Immense Suffering According To Jay Park

Moreover, Koreans endured terrible suffering, including enslavement, death, torture, racial discrimination, and oppression.

“War breaking out within our own people and families torn apart and millions killed,” he said.

The effects of war on families have resulted in numerous cases of family breakdown, leading to a great deal of tragedy.

Immediately following the Korean War, South Korea experienced poverty comparable to that experienced by North Korea, if not worse. As a result, many people died from starvation and resorted to eating dirt to sustain themselves. The satisfaction of one’s hunger should never be achieved by eating inedible items.

According to the rapper, diligent work, perseverance, and unwavering willpower have turned disaster into victory throughout Korea’s long, turbulent, and heartbreaking history. Furthermore, Jay feels that the more he learns, the more aware he will be of his spoiledness. A mentality similar to Jay’s is not unique. In our privilege of enjoying a stable life without financial hardships, we tend to forget to recognize those struggling.

Jay Park Exhibits Appreciation

Aside from that, Jay wishes to express his gratitude to those who have ensured he has enjoyed such a rewarding life. One of the signs of maturity is expressing gratitude and putting pride aside when acknowledging one would not be where they are today without their ancestor’s contributions.

“The world knows us for entertainment, music and film. They will know our story soon as well. Happy Liberation Day,” Park said.

Objections Against The ‘DNA Remix’ Music Video

In June of 2021, the first version of the “DNA Remix” music video was released to highlight Korean culture and heritage. It also illustrates how Korean music has influenced cultures around the world. However, due to social media criticism, the video was set to private after many users pointed out the flaws. It has been argued that the rappers’ dreadlocks and braids illustrate cultural appropriation.

Former President Of North Korea, Kim II Sung, Freed The People In 1945

Now, let’s take a moment to talk about the hero who saved the day! Koreans observe the Day of Korea’s Liberation tribute to President Kim II Sung. Sung opened the way to a new life for the nation by performing the legendary deeds he is best known for.

jay park
Kim II Sung. Credit: Sergey Guneev/Sputnik

Due to the occupation of the Japanese military during the first half of the twentieth century, the Korean people experienced a great deal of misery. To lead the struggle for national liberation that Kim Il Sung initiated when he was at the country’s helm, he set up a state of war against the Japanese attackers.

There was an immediate release of the Japanese military on August 15, 1945, which marked the liberation of the Korean people from the long period of Japanese rule that lasted nearly half a century.

Experiencing Happiness

Furthermore, hundreds of thousands of people rushed to the playground, shouting thunderous cheers and waving flags in a show of unity, not only from Pyongyang and its surroundings but also from Sariwon, Haeju, Sinuiju, and throughout the country. When one knows they have just been released from adversity, they will likely celebrate with as much joy as possible.

The cheers expressed the Korean people’s appreciation for Kim II Sung. His leadership fulfilled the national dreams of the Korean nation. They also expressed their willingness and readiness to participate in creating a new country under his command.

jay park
Koreans expressed feelings of joy after being freed from captivity in 1945. Credit: Korean Friendship Association

On October 14, 1945, a historic meeting was held between Kim Il Sung and the country’s people at the Pyongyang public playground (now known as Kim Il Sung Stadium), in which he made a speech that will live in history.

A great deal of credit should be given to Kim II Sung for his diligent work. His contributions will be remembered forever. His efforts resulted in the freedom of many innocent individuals who had been held against their will.

Written by Nikiya Biggs

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Is Travis Scott Making a Comeback Since Astroworld Tragedy?

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 07: Travis Scott performs at The O2 Arena on August 07, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns)

Travis Scott is set to make a comeback!  The Houston rapper headlined two concerts in London this past weekend.  It has been nine months since his Astroworld music festival.  Unfortunately, 10 attendees were killed with hundreds injured at that festival forcing Travis Scott to lay low for several months.  It’s hard for people to forget what happened that day.

Astroworld

 In November 2021 at the NRG Park in Houston, Texas the Astroworld Festival took place.  With over 50,000 people in attendance, during Travis’s set, the crowd tried to rush towards the stage.  Rushing the stage caused many people to be stuck and out of breath.  Investigators of the incident named compression asphyxia as the cause of death for the 10 victims.  Compression asphyxia is where there is no respiration in your body because of external pressure.  Unfortunately, the concert still went on even with all the commotion leading people to questions Scott’s motives.

Performance in London

In front of 20,000 fans at the O2 Arena, Scott performed new songs from his next album, Utopia.  The album is set to have verses from Swae Lee, Bryson Tiller, and 21 Savage.  He even treated fans to a track featuring Kanye West.  The track titled, “God’s Country” was supposed to be on Kanye’s Donda album, but it never made it.  Scott also performed “Lost Forever”, featuring Westside Gunn and James Blake.  He debuted this song at the Billboard Music Awards earlier this year.

Travis Celebrates

After his show, he was met by his good friends NBA stars James Harden and Kevin Durant.  They embraced him and celebrated him for his first headlining show since Astroworld festival.  His wife, Kylie Jenner, and Stormi were also there to support him.  Kylie caught the celebration on camera and posted the trio to social media.  In the video, Travis can be seen shirt-off, yelling, and screaming banging his hand against the door.  James Harden joins him while Kevin Durant pops a bottle of champagne.  This video was met with criticism as fans thought he was being insensitive after what happened at his festival.  They said he is still “raging” and isn’t a good look.

With his fourth studio album in the works, people are wondering if Utopia will honor the victims of the Astroworld festival.  Fans feel he should at least mention it on the album.  Before the album, he has a residency at Las Vegas from September 17-October 15.  “Road to Utopia” consists of seven shows and will be at the Zouk nightclub.

Written by: Brandon Simmons

 

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Rapper Lil Keed dead at 24 Years Old

Lil Keed Died At Only 24 Years Old
Lil Keed. Image source: Prince Williams/Wireimage.

YSL rapper Lil Keed has died of unknown circumstances. This father, friend, pioneer, and creative will be missed.

Breaking The Hard News

In the early hours of May 14, news of Atlanta artist Lil Keed’s death began circulating on social media. The rumors were firstly confirmed by Keed’s brother Lil Gotit via Instagram. Keed, formally known as Raqhid Jevon Render, was only 24 when he tragically passed away.

At this time, there’s been no confirmation on the cause of death.

“Can’t believe I seened u die today bro,” Lil Gotit also typed in a somber caption. “I did all my cries I know what u want me to do and that’s go hard for Mama Daddy Our Brothers Naychur and Whiteboy #ImaHoldthisShitDown.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ONE (@lilgotit)

In addition to the RIP post, Gotit also added a photo to his story with a downcast caption. “@lilkeed Whyyy bra whyyy u leave me bra,” he typed along with several tearful emojis.

Lil Keed first rose to fame in 2018 with his Billboard Hip Hop/R&B hit “Nameless.” However, he was also heavily involved in the Atlanta rap takeover before then. Keed and Lil Gotit would post their music online in 2017, which then slowly gained local traction. Mixtapes like “Slime Avenue” helped Keed develop a presence in the trap genre. In 2018, the 20-year-old was signed to Young Thug’s label YSL Records and 300 Entertainment. The following year would bring great success for the young rapper. In 2019 Keed released his debut album “Long Live Mexico.” The record climbed to #26 on the US Billboard 200 and #11 on the top RnB/HipHop albums chart.

Keed’s unique style and flow significantly contributed to today’s signature Atlanta style.

“My goal and my intentions for my future? I wanna be a megastar. I don’t wanna be no superstar, I wanna be a megastar.”

-Lil Keed, XXL Freshman Interview, 2020

Loved Ones React On Lil Keed’s Death

Condolences have already begun pouring out from the rap world. Zaytoven, Trippie Redd, and Lil Gnar are just a few of Keed’s peers to pay their respects.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 555 (@trippieredd)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Zaytoven (@zaytovenbeatz)

A Four-Page Letter

Keed’s longtime girlfriend and baby mother, Quana Bandz, also posted a lengthy caption mourning her partner.

“I love you sooooo much baby what I’m post to do with out you I can’t breathe right sleep right nothing I don’t even wanna talk to nobody Keed I can’t take this why you leave US bruh,” she typed. “You told me everything I’m sooooo sorry I didn’t fly to LA I know I could’ve saved you baby you really showed me all you needed was MY LOVE you gave me that I gave you that. IM SORRY please just tell me this a dream come home…”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by QUANA BANDZ💗 (@quanabandz.f)

The sudden news also come right off Young Thug’s RICO charge and arrest. Both Thug and Gunna are currently in police custody as their fates are still unknown. This is yet another massive blow for the music label in an already hectic period.

Be sure to send hopes, prayers, and positive thoughts to Keed’s family and friends during this challenging time.

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Dreema Carrington|IG: @dr3amgirl79|Twitter: @notdreema

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Travis Scott Responds To PR Stunt Backlash from Astroworld Victim Families

Travis Scott | Photo by Ahmed Klink
Travis Scott | Photo by Ahmed Klink

The grandparents of one of the victims of the Astroworld Incident are not happy with Travis Scott’s philanthropic initiative. Travis Scott’s lawyers have responded.

On March 8, Travis Scott created Project Heal. It was to impact as an act of philanthropy to make events safer, as well as giving academic scholarships to those who need it. While the $5 million initiative is very charitable, some are seeing it in a different light.

The grandparents of Ezra Blount, the youngest victim of the Astroworld incident, talked with Rolling Stone about this act. They are taking it as a violation of the gag order until the court case is over.

“It’s a PR stunt. He’s pretty much trying to sway the jurors before they’re even assembled. He’s trying to make himself look good, but it doesn’t look that way to someone with our eyes. What we’re seeing is that he’s done wrong, and now he’s trying to be the good guy and trying to give his own verdict on safety.”

Ezra’s father was the one who filed the lawsuit against Scott. His lawyer is calling this a PR move to get the public on his side and to besmirch people like the Blount’s.

“Blount and the other plaintiffs herein do not have the high profile ability to sway public opinion as defendant Scott — an international music star — and his sophisticated media team do.”

Travis Scott’s Response

Travis Scott’s lawyer has, however, responded to this. He says that Scott should be allowed to make public statements about his ongoing philanthropic efforts. He is saying that not allowing him to talk about them would go against the First Amendment and would be unconstitutional.

It is arguable why Scott decided to promote Project Heal. However, the only thing that does stand that it was a charitable effort. Many will profit from the said PR stunt, or a simple genuine act of kindness. The money was still given to charity.

Written by Justin Acosta

Twitter: @hahalacka

 

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Cardi B Pledges to Donate to Families Affected by Deadly Bronx Fire

On Sunday, January 9th a fire broke out in an apartment complex in the Bronx. While fire is dangerous, it is often the smoke that kills. Due to an as-yet-unknown reason, two doors within the complex designed to prevent the spread of fire failed to close. Rapidly, the upper levels of the complex filled with smoke. As a result, 44 inhabitants were sent to the hospital, and an additional 17 lost their lives. The ages of the casualties ranged from 2-50. In response, Bronx rapper Cardi B stated, “I send my prayers and condolences to everyone affected by this horrific tragedy.” Moreover, she is willing to put her money where her mouth is. As of yesterday, the Bronx native announced that she is both joining the Mayor’s Fund, and paying for the funeral costs of the victims.

The deadliest fire in recent history

This tragedy marks the second deadliest fire in Bronx history since an incident in 1990 which killed 87 people. How could such a thing have happened? It turns out, inside the apartment complex lurked a dangerous combination of safety failures.

By Keith Collins and Anjali Singhvi

On the 3rd floor, an overworked space heater malfunctioned. Reportedly, it had been constantly running for several days in order to supplement the building’s heat during the cold winter months. Meanwhile, the door to the building’s stairwell failed to close. As the blaze grew, its smoke completely filled the stairwell. The complex lacks a fire escape, which most similarly-sized buildings provide. Thus, the smoke blocked off the residents’ only avenue of escape. A second door on the 15th floor additionally failed to close, allowing the smoke to enter upper floors and suffocate their residents. Meanwhile, the residents themselves were completely ignorant of the fire until it was too late. Evidently, the fire alarms in the complex mistakenly go off 5 or 6 times every day. There was no way for residents to tell that this time, it was all too real.

The generosity of Cardi B

Many of the residents in this complex were immigrants on Section 8 housing. Many of the victims were specifically from The Gambia, and their families wanted their remains to be returned to the West African country, an expensive endeavor. On Wednesday, the Mayor of NYC announced that Cardi B had decided to pay the funeral costs for these victims.

“I’m extremely proud to be from the Bronx and I have lots of family and friends who live and work there still. So, when I heard about the fire and all of the victims, I knew I needed to do something to help.” (Cardi B)

Furthermore, the Bronx artist has partnered with the Mayor’s Fund to Advance NYC. The Fund is a non-profit organization that seeks to improve the lives of all New York citizens, governed by a board of directors appointed by the Mayor.

“I cannot begin to imagine the pain and anguish that the families of the victims are experiencing, but I hope that not having to worry about the costs associated with burying their loved ones will help as they move forward and heal.” (Cardi B)

Cardi B isn’t the only Bronx artist to reach out to those affected by this incident. Fat Joe has started a fundraiser and is asking his fans to help. Reportedly, Jay-Z and DJ Khaled have already donated.

by Chris Colasurdo
@cfcolasurdo on Twitter

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Drakeo The Ruler’s Mother Wants Justice For His Death

Drakeo The Ruler

Drakeo The Ruler’s death was the result of a sudden stabbing at the Once Upon A Time festival in L.A. Darrylene Corniel, Drakeo’s mother is out for justice. According to an interview with Rolling Stone, she is planning to take legal action. She shared, “We plan to sue. This happened backstage at an event. Someone has to be held accountable.”

At her Los Angeles residence, Corniel gave a chilling rundown of what she was told took place that night.

Drakeo was scheduled to perform and was accompanied by a small group, including his brother Ralfy the Plug. A reported influx “like 40 to 60 people” arrived around the same time as Compton rapper YG and “swamped” her son and his crew.

According to Corniel, “Everything just happened so quickly,” she said. “They started trying to jump them.” She said Devonte (Ralphy The Plug) tried to protect his brother: “He was trying to fight, but when he turned around, he could see his brother with blood gushing out of him.”

Although she credits pride as playing a part in this tragedy, she incites the failure of security to do their jobs.  “It is such a shame how much jealousy and envy can make people stoop to such low tactics to try to destroy another individual because of fame and progress,” she said. “When you start getting up there, people start getting intimidated. So, I believe, once his platform started going higher, people started getting upset.”

A mothers love

It is unfortunate that a parent has to bury their child. The “senseless act of violence is a reoccurring thing in hip hop. Just so, it leaves the family of the victims to pick up the pieces. She shares the aftermath of seeing her son saying,

“He was hit in his neck. I saw him when I went to the hospital. They said it’s a homicide, so I wasn’t able to hug him or kiss him or anything like that. I had to look at him through a window.”

“I will not rest until justice is served.”

Once Upon A Time…

The Once Upon A Time In L.A. festival was to be a night celebrating music. The festival featured the finest the industry had to offer. With a heavy lineup consisting of acts by 50 Cent, Al Green, YG, Ice Cube, and The Game, entertainment was all but guaranteed. Live Nation hosted the concert at the Banc of California Stadium in L.A.’s Exposition Park. In a statement, Live Nation said the fatal incident happened “in a roadway backstage” and that it caused the festival to end an hour early.

What’s more, Live Nation is amid a sea of lawsuits from Astroworld victims. Fox recently shared that the entertainment company has a lawsuit ridden history. As a result, Live Nations stock plummeted following the tragic Astroworld festival.

Music festival safety is now a top priority for organizers, and a worry for the public. With footage of the incident rotating, it is clear that security competency is a reoccurring issue. While many speculate YG’s involvement, it has not yet been confirmed.

https://twitter.com/GrindFaceTV/status/1472766146952634369?s=20

We send our condolences to Drakeo’s family at this time.

Follow us for more as this investigation continues. @FMHipHop:  Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.

Written by Antoinette Ford

 

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Family of 9-Year Old Ezra Blount Declines Travis Scott Funeral Coverage

Ezra Blount, at 9-years old, was the youngest victim of the Astroworld Festival tragedy. He sustained major injuries to his liver, brain, and kidney, tragically passing away after a coma. He was laid to rest in Texas on Nov. 23. Travis Scott, in an attempt to console the families, reached out to cover funeral costs, but the Blount family has declined the assistance of the rapper.

On Monday Nov. 29, XXL shared a statement enclosed with legal documents from Scott’s attorneys. Expressly, Bob Hilliard, the attorney representing Erza’s family, responded with a letter to La Flame’s attorney, Daniel Petrocelli.

The letter from Blount’s family in response to Travis Scott’s offer

Dear Mr. Petrocelli,

The loss of a child is like a faucet of unimaginable pain that has no off handle. To lose a child in the manner Treston lost Ezra compounds the pain as a parent, Treston cannot help but agonize over the terrible idea that Ezra’s last minutes were filled with terror, suffering, suffocation and worst of all surrounded by strangers, his dad unconscious underneath the uncontrolled crowd.

I don’t know if you’re a father. I don’t know if your client is a father. If you are, then all you have to do is put your child at 9 years old in Ezra’s place and you both know what happens to your gut, at the most basic and instinctive level.

Your client’s offer is declined. I have no doubt Mr. Scott feels remorse. His journey ahead will be painful. He must face and hopefully see that he bears some of the responsibility for this tragedy. There may be, and I hope there is, redemption and growth for him on the other side of what this painful process will be—and perhaps one day, once time allows some healing for the victims and acceptance of responsibility by Mr. Scott and others, Treston and Mr. Scott might meet—as there is also healing in that. For now, Mr. Scott must respect the fact that his pain and his devastation pale to Treston’s, Ezra’s mom, and the other victims.

I thank you for your note and I offer the above respectfully and directly so as to be sure we share an understanding of the path ahead.

The tragic events of Astroworld

Clearly, the unexpected and preventable nature of Ezra Blount’s death has devastated his family. With this in mind, it is important to see the basis of their worry.

According to a statement from GoFundMe, Ezra’s father, Treston Blount, said other concertgoers crushed his son during the surge. Due to a lack of oxygen, he could not breathe. Blount said he fell with Ezra on his shoulders, passed out, and both were trampled by the crowd.

The 9-year-olds grandparents found him in the hospital following the event. CBS News reported the following statement on Sunday, from the family’s attorney:

“Ezra sustained life-threatening injuries and was placed in a medically induced coma on life support in an attempt to combat his brain, liver, and kidney trauma.”

“Ezra’s grandparents said they later found him alone at the hospital in a coma, suffering from significant organ damage and severe brain swelling.”

Travis Scott was Ezra’s favorite rapper. Although Scott may mean well, the Astroworld Festival has left many of his. biggest fans traumatized and devastated. One can only hope there he’ll respect the family’s wishes and take responsibility while they mourn the life of their innocent child.

If you missed anything regarding the tragic Astroworld Festival, catch up here.

Written by Antoinette Ford