Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio shot and killed in Tampa 'ambush,' says attorney

TAMPA, Fla. – Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio was shot and killed in Tampa early Sunday, his attorney, Lewis Fusco, confirmed to News4JAX.

Charles Jones, known by his stage name "Julio Foolio," was celebrating his 26th birthday on Friday and was staying at an Airbnb, according to Fusco.

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Fusco mentioned that too many people were at the Airbnb where they were celebrating, and they had to leave. In an Instagram story, the rapper said police shut down the pool party and "kicked" them out of the Airbnb. Numerous posts on his social media advertised the event's location.

RELATED: Controversial Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio suffers minor injury in Riverside shootout

Fusco said the rapper then got a hotel room at a Holiday Inn, where he was “basically ambushed” in the parking lot.

“The victim in this morning’s shooting is believed to be Charles Jones,” Tampa Police Public Information Officer Jonee’ Lewis stated in a press release. “Positive identification is pending confirmation from the Medical Examiner’s Office.”
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According to Tampa Police, three other people were injured and are being treated at the hospital, with their conditions listed as stable.

Dozens of people have turned to social media to discuss the rapper’s death, including a woman who claimed to be his girlfriend.

Jones was known for his popular drill rap videos with controversial lyrics about murders involving rival gangs in Jacksonville.

MORE: Jacksonville rappers are making music videos about real murders. Police and mothers of victims are watching.

In the past three years, Jones had been shot twice in Jacksonville.

Fusco released an official statement regarding Jones' death, which reads in part:
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> "While these events involving our client, Mr. Charles Jones, have been disclosed by law enforcement, we are unable to provide further comments at this time until additional details become public record. We kindly request that the privacy of Mr. Jones and his family be respected during this difficult time."