Pop Smoke's Alleged Killers Charged with Murder, Could Face Death Penalty

Four people have been charged with murder in the killing of Pop Smoke.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced criminal charges against two adults and two teenagers. Corey Walker, 19, and Keandre Rodgers, 18, were each charged with murder with the special circumstance allegation that the murder occurred during the commission of a robbery and a burglary. The criminal complaint also includes gang and gun allegations.

They could face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted on the allegation that the murder occurred during a burglary. Prosecutors have yet to decide whether they will seek capital punishment.

Additionally, two male juveniles, ages 17 and 15, were each charged with one count of murder and robbery in juvenile court. Their names were withheld, as they’re still minors.

Last week, the L.A. Police Department made five arrests in connection with the Feb. 19 home invasion killing. The four defendants are accused of breaking into Pop Smoke’s home in the Hollywood Hills and fatally shooting the 20-year-old rapper during a robbery. Authorities said the assailants did not know Pop Smoke personally, and may have discovered his location through social media.

On Monday, Pop Smoke’s debut album Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 251,000 equivalent album units. He becomes the first rapper to posthumously debut at No. 1 with his debut album.