Michael Andre Robinson, 22, a rising rap star known professionally as Ralan Styles, was killed in a shooting during an attempted robbery in Columbus, Ohio. The incident occurred shortly after 5 a.m. Saturday, October 19, 2024, in the 300 block of West Third Avenue in the city’s Victorian Village neighborhood.

Police responded to a “rapid SOS” call and found Robinson with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mahamood Hassan, 24, of Columbus’s Northeast Side, was arrested and charged with murder after witnesses identified him in a photo array. Hassan is being held on a $2 million bond at Franklin County Municipal Court, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 29.

Witnesses reported that the shooting occurred when an assailant attempted to steal Robinson’s neck chain. When Robinson refused to surrender the item, the shooter opened fire and fled the scene. Multiple witnesses provided detailed descriptions of the shooter to police, leading to Hassan’s detainment. 

“Michael was not just an incredible talent but also a kind-hearted soul who poured his heart into every song he made for his fans,” Big Money Records wrote in an Instagram post announcing his death. “He touched many lives through his music, and his legacy will live on through the beats and lyrics he created.” 

Originally from Tallahassee, Florida, Robinson had built a significant following with 1.2 million TikTok followers. His 2022 remix of the children’s song “Baby Shark” garnered over 1.7 million views on YouTube and was featured in more than 25,000 TikTok videos. The original version of “Baby Shark” has accumulated over 15 billion views on YouTube. His remix version has also achieved over 32 million plays on Spotify. 

Styles’ brother, Lil Goat, also a rapper, shared his grief on social media shortly after Styles’ death, posting videos of their time together. He expressed disbelief, saying he was still waiting for Styles to call and reveal it was all just a joke. 

He described their deep bond, recalling how they rapped together at lunch in middle school and later rose to fame. He spoke of their struggles and successes, from sleeping on the floor to signing their first deal. Lil Goat vowed that his brother’s memory would live on through him and asked him to watch over him, adding, “Rest in peace, my little brother. Save me a spot up there.”

Styles’ friend Jared Krumm also paid tribute, lamenting the loss of someone so young. He reflected on the past two years, recalling Styles’ infectious energy and talent, whether in the studio, hanging out in Jake’s basement, or grabbing food at McDonald’s. Krumm emphasized that Styles’ presence was unforgettable.

Fans of Styles also left heartfelt messages on Lil Goat’s post, with one remarking that they had followed the brothers’ journey for a long time and admired their musical connection. Though they did not know Styles personally, the loss deeply affected them.

The investigation into the shooting is still active. Police continue to gather evidence, and additional charges may be filed as the case progresses.