The hip-hop community is mourning the unexpected loss of Outlawz rapper Young Noble, 47, whose family has launched an official GoFundMe campaign following news of his passing on July 4. At the time of writing, over $6,000 has been raised of the $22,000 goal.

The fundraiser reads: "This is the official 'Go Fund Me' from the family of Rufus Lee 'Young Noble' Cooper III. In this hour we ask for prayer. We ask that you understand Mental Health is real. Our family and community request your support with our next moment in time. Peace & Blessings #O4L."

Young Noble’s longtime friend and fellow Outlawz member E.D.I. Mean shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that the rapper appeared to have taken his own life.

"Today I got some of the worst and most unexpected news imaginable. My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus 'Young Noble' Cooper. I obviously am in no shape to talk about this right now, so PLEASE give his family and I some time to process this.

Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON YOUR FOLKS."

Just days before his death, on June 22, Young Noble posted an uplifting message to social media—his last public statement—which now carries a haunting weight:

"You're not reading this by accident. This is your confirmation. You're going to make it. No matter what it looks like right now."

Source: GoFundMe