The City of Forest Park has denied a special permit for a vigil honoring late Atlanta rapper Lil Keed at a local park.
Lil Keed, whose real name was Raqhid Jevon Render, died May 14 in California at age 24. An official cause of death has not been released, though sources told TMZ that the rapper suffered from stomach pains before his death and may have experienced organ failure.
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“Like so many others throughout metro Atlanta and communities across the nation, the City of Forest Park was saddened to hear about the recent passing of local hometown entertainer Raqhid Jevon Render, also known as Lil Keed. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to his family, friends and all those who have been impacted by this unfortunate loss,” city officials said.
City officials said that in light of upcoming events including the general primary election next week, they decided not to issue a permit for the vigil, which was to be held at Starr Park Tuesday night.
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Officers will be taking extra precautions next week to block streets and parking to Starr Park in an effort to help ensure public safety. There will also be extra patrols at all city parks and public recreation areas.
“Although this may be a difficult time for a great number individuals, the city is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and businesses,” city officials said. “It is our sincere hope that the life of Mr. Render will be celebrated peacefully by all those who wish to remember him and his legacy.”
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Render was from the same Cleveland Road area of Forest Park as rapper Young Thug and considered his protégé. He was one of just four rappers officially on Young Thug’s Young Slime Life label.
Young Thug was arrested earlier this month on a sweeping gang indictment along with Gunna, who is also on the YSL label. Render was not one of the 28 people named in the indictment.
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