AceShowbiz - The family of rap newcomer Pop Smoke has broken its silence to ask for "respect and responsible reporting" regarding the circumstances surrounding the rising star's fatal shooting.

The "Welcome to the Party" hitmaker, real name Bashar Jackson, was killed by armed robbers during a home invasion at a rented Los Angeles property on February 19, 2020, and now, more than a week after the tragic loss, his loved ones have issued a statement thanking fans for their outpouring of support.

It begins, "The family of Bashar 'Pop Smoke' Jackson would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone for your support."

"Every prayer, call, and act of kindness is deeply appreciated as we mourn the loss of our son, brother and friend."

His relatives go on to praise the 20 year old for "proudly" representing his native Brooklyn, New York in his work as he revealed his "extraordinary giftedness" to the world, and conclude the statement by asking members of the press to avoid spreading unfounded rumours as police officials continue to investigate the case, in which they have yet to identify any suspects.

"Unfortunately, there are no public details available regarding the murder of our loved one," they add.

"We ask for respect and responsible reporting during this critical time. Inaccurate reports only add unnecessary pain to a grieving family."

The family's first comments about Pop Smoke's untimely passing emerge a week after coroners ruled he was killed by a gunshot wound to the torso, officially declaring his death a homicide.