Former Cash Money artist Turk suffered the loss of his brother early Monday morning (Feb. 22), when he was gunned down in New Orleans. The rapper's brother, Ronald Smith, was reportedly murdered behind a daiquiri shop at around 3AM by 19-year-old Travis Dennis, who is currently in police custody.

Turk, who is serving a 12-year prison sentence for shooting a S.W.A.T. team member during a raid in a Memphis apartment, wrote an open letter in Ozone Magazine, requesting support and assistance.

"My mother is mourning over the loss of her youngest child and over the fact that there is no insurance or funds to arrange the proper burial," Turk wrote. "I am asking for you to get the word out and to also help financially in any way you can. Any donations can be sent to me at the Shelby County Jail by Western Union and for those who know me personally funds can be given directly to my mother Ms. Pamela Smith."

He also appealed to the media for help. "I'm reaching out to all of you who have influence on the hip-hop community," Turk continued. "My little brother and I were as close as brothers can be and it hurts me to lose him at such a young age, but as a man I must be strong."

To read the rest of Turk's letter, or to contribute funds, click here.

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