Rapper OG Maco, best known for his 2014 viral smash “U Guessed It,” was rushed to the hospital Thursday morning with a gunshot wound to the head, TMZ Hip Hop can confirm.
Police sources say they responded to a 911 call in the Los Angeles area at 10 AM after a neighbor heard a gun go off inside a home.
It’s unclear what transpired leading up to the shot — but all signs point to an apparent suicide attempt.
We’re told the ATL-born Maco was found unresponsive and was rushed to a local hospital and immediately into surgery. A firearm was also retrieved at the scene.
Maco’s manager, Poppa Percccc, tells TMZ Hip Hop his longtime friend is not deceased, but needs urgent prayers from all his friends, fans, supporters and associates.
Maco was one of the legendary QC Records’ first breakout stars in the mid-2010s. We’re told he has plenty of fresh new music in the vault as well.
This story is developing … get well soon. 🙏🏾
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
The hip-hop community is reeling from shocking news that rapper OG Maco has been hospitalized following a gunshot wound in what authorities are investigating as an apparent suicide attempt. The 32-year-old artist, known for his breakout hit “U Guessed It,” is currently in stable condition but remains under close medical observation.
A Troubling Incident
The incident reportedly occurred late last night at OG Maco’s Atlanta residence. Emergency responders were called to the scene after a 911 call was placed by a close friend who found the rapper injured. Authorities have not released specific details about the circumstances leading to the gunshot wound but have confirmed that no foul play is suspected.
“At this time, we are treating this as a self-inflicted injury,” a spokesperson for the Atlanta Police Department stated. “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time.”
Fans and Peers Express Concern
As news of OG Maco’s hospitalization spread, fans and fellow artists took to social media to express their shock and support. Many highlighted the rapper’s openness about his struggles with mental health, particularly in recent years.
“Praying for OG Maco right now,” tweeted fellow rapper Vince Staples. “Mental health is no joke. If you’re struggling, please reach out to someone.”
Others shared messages of love and encouragement, urging the artist to stay strong.
“We love you, Maco,” wrote a fan on Instagram. “You’ve inspired so many people with your music and your honesty. Keep fighting.”
A History of Challenges
OG Maco has been candid about his personal struggles, including battles with depression and the pressures of fame. In a 2019 interview, he revealed that he often felt isolated despite his success in the music industry.
“People see the glitz and glamour, but they don’t see the pain behind it,” he said. “It’s hard to keep going when you feel like nobody really understands what you’re going through.”
The rapper also faced significant health challenges in the past, including a near-fatal car accident in 2016 that left him with severe injuries. Despite these setbacks, OG Maco continued to create music and connect with his fans, often using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
The Importance of Mental Health Support
The incident has reignited conversations about the importance of mental health support, particularly within the entertainment industry. Experts emphasize that artists often face unique pressures that can exacerbate underlying mental health issues.
“The combination of public scrutiny, financial stress, and the demands of constant creativity can be overwhelming,” said Dr. Angela Carter, a psychologist specializing in creative industries. “It’s crucial for individuals in these fields to have access to comprehensive mental health resources.”
Organizations like MusiCares and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer support for artists struggling with mental health challenges, providing counseling services and crisis intervention.
A Message of Hope
While the news of OG Maco’s apparent suicide attempt is deeply troubling, it has also sparked an outpouring of solidarity and hope. Fans and fellow artists alike are rallying around the rapper, sending messages of love and urging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
“It’s okay to not be okay,” wrote singer Kehlani on Twitter. “Please check on your friends, your family, and yourself. We need to take care of each other.”
Resources for Those in Crisis
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, help is available. In the United States, you can call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit their website for confidential support 24/7. International resources include the Samaritans (UK) at 116 123 and Lifeline (Australia) at 13 11 14.
Looking Ahead
As OG Maco recovers, the focus remains on his health and well-being. While the road ahead may be challenging, the rapper’s resilience and the support of his community offer hope for a brighter future. Fans continue to send their love and prayers, eagerly awaiting updates on his condition.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassion and understanding in times of crisis. As the hip-hop community rallies around OG Maco, the message is clear: no one should have to face their struggles alone.
