Jacksonville Rapper Julio Foolio Shot and Killed in Tampa on Birthday Weekend

A tragic incident occurred in Tampa, Florida, as prominent Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio, also known as Charles Jones, was shot and killed over the weekend on his 26th birthday celebration. The news was confirmed by his attorney, Lewis Fusco, who revealed that the artist was staying in Tampa to mark the special occasion.

According to Fusco, Julio Foolio had initially been celebrating at an Airbnb, but due to the overwhelming number of guests, they were asked to vacate the premises. Subsequently, the rapper relocated to a Holiday Inn where the unfortunate ambush took place in the hotel parking lot.

In an official statement, Tampa Police spokesperson Jonee’ Lewis mentioned that the victim is believed to be Charles Jones, pending confirmation from the Medical Examiner’s Office. The police have also reported that three additional individuals were injured in the incident and are currently receiving medical treatment with stable conditions.

Julio Foolio, known for his controversial drill rap videos featuring lyrics centered around gang violence in Jacksonville, had previously survived two shootings in his hometown. Despite the challenges he faced, the artist continued to amass a significant following in the music industry.

Lewis Fusco emphasized the need for privacy and respect during this difficult time for Jones’ family and requested that additional details be awaited until they are publicly disclosed. The attorney refrained from providing further comments on the ongoing investigation.

Charles Jones, who adopted the stage name Julio Foolio, had a growing presence in the music scene with his unique style and storytelling. His journey from his upbringing in Jacksonville to his pursuits in the industry showcased his resilience and dedication to his craft.

Having grown up in Mexico before pursuing her journalism career in California, Marcela, a San Diego State University alumna, joined News4JAX in 2023. Her experience in TV and digital journalism has played a pivotal role in delivering the latest news to viewers.