Chicago’s hip-hop community is mourning the death of rising drill rapper BloodHound Q50, whose real name was Mikquale Cooper, after he was fatally shot in the city’s Fuller Park neighborhood.
Cooper was 22 years old.
According to Chicago police reports cited by multiple news organizations, the shooting happened at approximately 3:58 a.m. Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the Fuller Park area. Cooper was reportedly sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle when two other vehicles pulled alongside him and gunfire erupted.
Mikquale Cooper Fatally Shot
Police said the victim suffered gunshot wounds to the chest and shoulder. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office subsequently identified the deceased 22-year-old as Mikquale Cooper of Chicago, providing official confirmation of the victim’s identity.
The shooting is being investigated as a homicide.
BloodHound Q50’s Music Career
Cooper was known professionally as BloodHound Q50 and had been building recognition within Chicago’s drill and hip-hop scene.
His death comes at a particularly early stage of his music career. Reports noted that he had recently celebrated his 22nd birthday on August 6 and had released his project “Get Back or Die Trying.”
His music had connected him with Chicago’s drill community while also bringing attention from audiences outside the city.
Police Investigation Continues
Authorities have not announced an arrest in connection with the shooting, and a motive has not been publicly established.
Reports indicate that the vehicles involved in the shooting fled the area after the gunfire. Investigators are expected to examine available surveillance footage and other evidence as they work to determine what led to the attack.
Family, Friends and Fans Mourn
News of Cooper’s death quickly spread through the hip-hop community, with artists, fans and people familiar with his music sharing tributes online.
His mother, Machetta Dudley, also publicly reacted following reports of her son’s death.
For many supporters, Cooper’s death represents the loss of a young artist whose career was still developing.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral and memorial arrangements for Mikquale Cooper, known as BloodHound Q50, have not been publicly confirmed in the sources reviewed for this report.
Further details are expected to come from his family or representatives.
May Mikquale Cooper rest in peace, and may his family, friends, fans and loved ones find strength during this difficult time.