21-year-old rapper Jimmy Wopo, real name Travon Smart, was tragically gunned down in a drive-by shooting on June 18, while staying in the Middle Hill neighborhood. His death marked the second loss of the day, following the murder of Florida rapper XXXTentacion mere hours earlier.
On June 29th, the rapper's funeral occurred at the Wesley Center A.M.E. Zion Church. According to a report from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the ceremony featured traditional hymns, as well as public readings from his family, including a poem by his younger sister; during her words, she claimed his title of "King of the Burg" would hold strong.
Footage of the public funeral has been made available by CBS Pittsburgh, which you can watch below. Manager Taylor Maglin spoke to reporters, saying "this is a huge loss for the city, as I said before, but seeing the amount of people that showed up shows the support system he had. Shows how much he meant to the community, as well as the whole city."
Though the killer has yet to be brought to justice, Maglin has kept fans informed about the status of the investigation. Unfortunately, he remains in the dark, as the police have yet to issue a statement. Though Wopo may be gone, Maglin has no intention on letting his memory fade. "We have multiple songs ready to be released. Two albums already completed, ready to release. I'm working with the city to set up an official day, Wopo Day, get a mural painted in the Hill District...He was a huge figure in this part of town."
Rest in peace Jimmy Wopo.