American rapper Milton Powell best known as Big Pokey has passed away at 45.
The Houston-born rapper collapsed on stage while performing at a bar in neighbouring Beaumont, Texas, late Saturday night.
Footage from the event showed Pokey with a mic in his hand, speaking with a DJ on stage when he exhaled heavily, tripped, and fell on stage.
Security personnel and a woman who claimed to be a nurse rushed to his side to administer aid.
Pokey was eventually transferred to the hospital after midnight after the EME showed up. The rapper was proclaimed dead at the hospital.
A statement on the rapper’s verified IG page confirmed his death. The statement read;
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Milton ‘Big Pokey’ Powell.
“Big Pokey passed away … He was well-loved by his family, friends, and loyal fans. In the coming days, we will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects.
“We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time. Big Pokey will forever be ‘The Hardest Pit in the Litter!’”
