Family, friends, and fans are grieving the sudden loss of 17-year-old rapper Rylo Huncho, whose real name was Raleigh Freeman III.

Huncho was just beginning to make his mark in the music world, gaining hundreds of monthly listeners on Spotify with songs like “Money Getta,” “Bag Talk,” and “La La La.” He also had a growing presence on Instagram and TikTok, where fans supported his creative journey.

Tragically, Rylo died from an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound on May 16, while filming a video for social media. In the now-circulating clip, he is seen dancing and holding a pistol before the gun discharges. He was rushed to the hospital but pronounced dead later that evening.

His mother, Monica Savage, shared her heartbreak: “I didn’t know he had a gun.” Rylo was her only child.

A GoFundMe page launched by his cousin described their tight bond, writing, “It was always her and her son.” The fundraiser has since closed after receiving widespread support.

The tragedy sheds light on the dangers of unsecured firearms. Kelly Drane of GIFFORDS Law Center noted that roughly 76 teens die each year from unintentional gunshot wounds, with nearly 40% being self-inflicted.

Rylo Huncho’s untimely passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks young people face—and the importance of responsible gun storage.