Tall T Dead: California Battle Rapper Tyrone Franklin Murdered on Park Bench

Stockton, Calif., battle rapper Tall T is dead after being gunned down in a park in broad daylight Tuesday (June 13). Born Tyrone Franklin, the regional battle rapper was seated with his girlfriend in Long Park in Weston Ranch, when he was approached from behind and shot, News10 reports.

Police officials revealed that the shooter tapped Tall T on the shoulder then hit the trigger once he turned around. Tall T's cousin, Latrice Dancy, heard the news of his death after seeing "Rest in Peace" posts featuring his name on Facebook.

"He was so talented and happy-go-lucky. It doesn't make sense," Dancy said.

Authorities have no suspect or motive for Tall T's murder. The rapper was set to release a new album this summer.

His death comes less than a week after another rising Stockton rhymer Saul Salas was shot and killed outside of TX nightclub in Lathrop, Calif. Police say there is no connection between the shootings.