Rich Gang Affiliate BTY Young’N Shot and Killed in New Orleans [PHOTO]

The New Orleans hip-hop community is mourning the loss of up-and-coming rapper BTY Young’N. The 27-year-old artist, who was affiliated with Birdman’s Rich Gang label, was shot and killed in NOLA on Saturday (April 29).

According to NOLA.com, BTY Young’N, whose real name is Desmone Jerome, was shot several times at a gas station at around 11:15PM. Police discovered his body and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Currently, police don’t have a motive for the shooting as the investigation is still ongoing. The young rapper leaves behind a two-month-old daughter and her mother in mourning.

BTY Young’N’s mentor and friend, Michael "Mista Maena" Patterson, is grieving over the loss of a promising rapper who was set to sign with Cash Money Records. "He had reached the point in his life that he became so free," he said. "A lot of people were counting on this guy. He had a good heart."

"They'd rather kill you before they see a young man change his whole family and his life," he added. "Whoever did this, they just didn't know who he was."

Last year, BTY Young’N and a friend visited Birdman's lavish mansion in Miami and were impressed by the rap mogul's gold toilet.

Upon hearing the sad news of BTY Young’N’s death, Birdman went on his Instagram page and posted a photo of the young rapper. "[R.I.P.] @bty_youngn #BTY #gonebutnevaforgotten," he wrote in the caption.

Funeral arrangements are still pending and the rapper's family is asking for privacy at this difficult time.

We want to send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of BTY Young’N. May he rest in peace.