SEATTLE — A man was shot Sunday night near Seattle’s South Park neighborhood and was taken off life support Monday.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the shooting happened at 8:40 p.m. on southbound State Route 509 near Cloverdale Street.
Troopers said someone in a car fired into the victim’s car, which had two men inside and was in the HOV lane.
The driver was shot in the face, causing the car hit the Jersey barrier on the left shoulder. The passenger was not hurt.
Troopers said the victim was treated at the scene and then taken to Harborview Medical Center. He was taken off of life support Monday morning. Family members identified the victim as 20-year-old James Richardson.
Richardson’s uncle, Tim McGee, fears whoever fired the shots meant to target Richardson, who was an up-and-coming rapper who went by the name of “Tanaa Money.”
“When you start shining, some people don’t want to see you shine,” said McGee.
By all accounts, Richardson was well-known and liked in Seattle’s music community.
“He reflected what a lot of black men go through, you know? The street culture, the violence,” said McGee.
“He was special. Not only to me, but to the community,” said Richardson’s mother, Keshia McGee. “Remember his smile. Remember how loving and respectful he was.”
His family is hoping that someone knows who’s responsible and comes forward.
Troopers said they found several shell casings at the scene. It is not known what led up to the shooting.
No vehicle or suspect description has been provided.
Troopers are asking anyone with information about the shooting to give them a call.
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See KIRO 7′s previous coverage of shootings along State Route 509
Teen blinded after SR 509 shooting speaks out
SR 509 shootings task force created after boy in car shot in head, blinded