A security guard stationed in front of the home of rapper Drake was seriously injured by gunfire on the night of Monday to Tuesday in Toronto, announced Canadian police who opened an investigation.
Around 2 a.m. (0600 GMT), “individuals in a vehicle opened fire,” investigator Paul Krawczyk of the police’s firearms and gangs unit told reporters on Tuesday. from Toronto.
“I can’t tell you if Drake was home when this happened, but I can tell you that we are in contact with his team who are cooperating,” he continued.
The vehicle left the scene afterwards.
The security guard was outside the sumptuous residence, in front of the gate, said the police, who refused for the moment to establish a link with the war of words between Drake and American rapper Kendrick Lamar.
“I am aware but it is too early in the investigation to determine a motive at this stage,” explained investigator Paul Krawczyk outside the Canadian star’s home.
In line with the famous “clashes” opposing the big names in rap, the conflict between the 37-year-old Canadian artist and the 36-year-old American rapper has intensified in recent days, with sharp words which caused a wave shock in the world of music.
Drake, the rapper who earned the most revenue in the world last year, and Kendrick Lamar, a big name in rap crowned with a prestigious Pulitzer Prize, are engaged in a public war taking the form of insults and accusations by interposed songs.
The two hip-hop stars rose to fame in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
“Strange coincidence”
“It’s quite a strange coincidence that this happens in the middle of this whole affair,” Cid Davoodf, a passerby who lives not far from Drake’s residence, responded to AFP.
Police, who did not provide a description of the suspects or the car sought, said the security guard was “still in critical condition in hospital” as of midday Tuesday.
“I heard gunshots and a car going really fast,” Richie Lai, a neighbor, told CBC television. “Five or ten minutes later I heard sirens.”
In the morning, the residence of the international star was placed under heavy police surveillance. A large security perimeter had been erected to prevent onlookers from approaching the scene.
Drake’s residence, measuring more than 4,500 square meters, is located in the chic Bridle Path district, in the north of the Canadian metropolis.
The police, who did not specify the number of shots fired, stressed that they have videos on hand which will allow them to advance the investigation.