XXXTentacion’s Death: What Really Happened in 2018?

Introduction

On June 18, 2018, the music world was shaken by the sudden and violent death of XXXTentacion — real name Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy. The 20-year-old Florida rapper, known for emotionally raw hits like Sad! and Changes, was shot dead in broad daylight in a case that shocked fans globally.

This article explores the cause of XXXTentacion’s death, the full story behind his murder in 2018, and answers the most searched questions like his age at death, death date, and the reason he was killed.

 Who Was XXXTentacion?

Before diving into the tragedy, it’s important to understand who he was.

• Real Name: Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy
• Stage Name: XXXTentacion
• Born: January 23, 1998
• Died: June 18, 2018
• Age at Death: 20 years old
• Genres: Hip-hop, emo rap, alternative
• Famous Songs: Sad!, Moonlight, Jocelyn Flores, Changes, Look at Me!

Despite a troubled past and legal issues, XXXTentacion was viewed by many as a voice for the broken and someone who was trying to change. His death cut that journey short.

• Death Date: June 18, 2018
• Location: RIVA Motorsports, Deerfield Beach, Florida
• Time of Attack: Around 3:56 PM EST

XXXTentacion’s Death Date and Location

That afternoon, X was visiting a motorsports dealership to purchase a motorcycle. As he attempted to leave the parking lot in his black BMW i8, he was ambushed by two armed men.

XXXTentacion Cause of Death

• Cause of Death: Gunshot wound to the neck
• Death was ruled a homicide
• He died at the hospital shortly after the shooting

Official Report:

Surveillance footage later confirmed that the rapper was targeted in a robbery, not a random act of violence. His killers stole a Louis Vuitton bag containing $50,000 in cash before shooting him and fleeing the scene.

Who Killed XXXTentacion?

The attack was premeditated by four men:

1. Dedrick Williams – Getaway driver
2. Michael Boatwright – Shooter
3. Trayvon Newsome – Second gunman
4. Robert Allen – Accomplice who later testified against the group
   
   
   

In 2023, after a lengthy trial, three of the four men were convicted and sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder and armed robbery.

XXXTentacion Death News Coverage

The news of XXXTentacion’s death spread like wildfire. Fans gathered at the crime scene, and social media was flooded with tributes. His final Instagram story, posted just hours before his death, eerily spoke about fate and the desire to be a “positive force.”

Headlines from June 2018:

• “Rapper XXXTentacion shot dead in Florida at age 20” – CNN
• “XXXTentacion killed in possible robbery” – BBC
• “Hip-Hop Mourns the Loss of a Troubled Talent” – Rolling Stone

Why Was XXXTentacion Killed?

Many fans still ask: What was the reason for XXXTentacion’s death?

Confirmed Reason:

It was a targeted robbery, not a personal vendetta. The assailants saw X carrying a bag of cash and decided to rob him, then killed him during the struggle.

There is no evidence the crime was related to gang violence or retaliation. Surveillance and phone records showed the suspects stalking him prior to the murder.

The Aftermath and Legacy

Despite his tragic death, XXXTentacion’s music has continued to grow in popularity:

• Sad! became his first Billboard Hot 100 #1 after his passing
• His albums Skins and Bad Vibes Forever were released posthumously
• He was the subject of a Hulu documentary: “Look at Me: XXXTentacion”

His legacy is complex — a mixture of pain, poetry, controversy, and change.

Final Words

The death of XXXTentacion was a heartbreaking end to a young life filled with both brilliance and turmoil. At just 20 years old, he had already become a voice for the voiceless and sparked massive change in music and mental health conversations. While his life was cut short, his message — of growth, pain, love, and legacy — still echoes loudly through his art.