Atlanta rapper OG Maco is reportedly fighting for his life at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after suffering gunshot wounds from what appears to be a suicide attempt on December 12, 2023. According to his manager, Poppa Percccc, the rapper shot himself and is currently on life support.
The incident reportedly unfolded early Thursday morning when neighbors heard gunfire emanate from Maco's residence and called 911 shortly after 10 a.m. Upon arrival, Los Angeles Police found the 32-year-old unresponsive, along with evidence of the shooting—a firearm was recovered from the scene.
Maco, born Benedict Chiajulam Ihesiba Jr., came to fame with his 2014 viral hit, “U Guessed It,” which became emblematic of the new sound of Atlanta hip-hop. He had signed with Quality Control Music, which helped launch the careers of artists like Migos and Lil Yachty. But Maco's life and career have been marked by both triumph and tribulation.
It's impossible to overlook the challenges he has faced over the years. After achieving considerable success, Maco has battled various health issues, including necrotizing fasciitis, a rare and potentially deadly skin disease. The disease not only altered his appearance but also proved to be emotionally taxing, leading him to reveal earlier this year the struggles he faced largely on his own.
Reflecting on his mental health, Maco once shared, “I’ve been going through this alone 90% of the time... I wanted to die a bunch of days.” These candid revelations showcase the serious mental health challenges he has grappled with, often without the support of close friends or family.
Poppa Percccc, his manager, spoke about the gravity of the situation, stating to AllHipHop, “I thought he was dead when I first saw him... we need everyone’s prayers.” He clarified, though, not to get hopes too high, as details about Maco’s condition remain scant. “Don’t get your hopes up. We don’t have much information, and they won’t even let us visit him in the hospital.”
Despite his current struggle, the outpouring of support from the hip-hop community has been significant. Many fans are taking to social media, sending prayers and well wishes as Maco fights for his life. The news of his hospitalization has shocked fans who have followed his career since the peak of his fame years ago.
From his rise with “U Guessed It” and being named among XXL's Freshman class of 2015 to the recent health setbacks, Maco's story is one of resilience. Even when the success became harder to replicate, with his career taking unexpected turns, he continued to pursue his passion for music. Before this latest incident, he was reportedly working on new music, likely hoping to redefine himself once again.
Rapper OG Maco's unfortunate turn of events serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive struggles many individuals face behind the scenes, especially those within the spotlight. His story calls to attention the importance of discussing mental health issues and the necessity for support systems.
If you or someone you know is battling with suicidal thoughts or mental health issues, it’s important to reach out for help. Resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be contacted at 800-273-8255 or by texting TALK to 741741. There’s always support available for those who need it.