Instagram post of rapper PnB Rock at Roscoe’s may have led to killing, LAPD chief says

The gunman who killed PnB Rock at the Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles restaurant in South Los Angeles demanded jewelry and other valuables before getting into a struggle with the rapper and opening fire, Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore said Tuesday.

Moore told reporters that investigators are looking into whether an Instagram post by PnB Rock, real name Rakim Allen, showing him wearing what appears to be expensive jewelry may have led to the robbery and shooting.

“That is one line of inquiry that we’re looking at very closely,” Moore said. “It’s certainly possible that this robbery was a result of social media postings.”

PnB Rock was shot and killed Monday night after leaving the restaurant. He was 26.

Moore said the gunman approached PnB Rock and two other men as they were getting into a car and demanded their valuables. PnB Rock handed over his jewelry, but a struggle ensued and the gunman shot him.

The chief urged people to be aware of what they post on social media, especially if they are showing off expensive items.

“You need to understand that in this day and age, people are looking at your postings,” he said. “And if you’re going to flaunt your wealth, there are those who will try to take it from you.”

PnB Rock’s manager, Amar Al-Suadi, said in a statement that the rapper was “a young man full of joy and happiness” who loved his family and friends.

“Rakim was humble, kindhearted, giving and loved by so many,” Al-Suadi said. “He was a genius with an insatiable work ethic.”

PnB Rock rose to fame with his 2016 single “Selfish,” which peaked at No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He released his debut album, “GTTM: Goin Thru the Motions,” in January 2017. His most recent album, “TrapStar Turnt PopStar,” came out last month.