Jumpman Joey Died: The Rapper Who Inspired Many, Shot and Killed on the Bridge

St. Louis, MO – The rap community in St. Louis is mourning the loss of one of their own. Troy Edwards, better known by his stage name Jumpman Joey, was shot and killed while driving across the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge on Sunday night.

According to the Illinois State Police, a white SUV going eastbound on Interstate 70 from Missouri on the Stan Musial Bridge was struck by gunfire. ISP Troop 8 and ISP DCI Zone 6 responded at milepost 2 in St. Clair County around 10:50 p.m. Sunday. The driver, identified as Edwards, was pronounced dead on the scene, and a passenger was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The St. Clair County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Edwards, 35, died from multiple gunshot wounds. The highway was shut down until around 3:15 a.m. The investigation is active and no suspects have been arrested or identified.

Who Was Jumpman Joey?

Jumpman Joey was a rising star in the St. Louis rap scene, known for his catchy hooks, energetic flow, and charismatic personality. He started rapping at a young age and released his first mixtape, “Jumpman Joey Vol. 1”, in 2015. He followed up with two more volumes in 2016 and 2017, as well as several singles and collaborations with other local artists.

He was also a member of the rap group Mudd Gang, along with his cousin Mudd Bughatti, who was also shot and killed while driving in East St. Louis in 2021. The group was popular for their songs “Mudd Walk”, “Mudd Baby”, and “Mudd Money”.

Joey had a loyal fan base in St. Louis and beyond, and was working on his debut album, “Jumpman Joey: The Album”, which was expected to drop in 2024. He had recently released a teaser video for his upcoming single, “Jumpman Anthem”, on his YouTube channel.

How Did the Rap Community React?

The news of Jumpman Joey’s death shocked and saddened many of his fellow rappers, friends, and fans, who took to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to him.

Some of the messages are as follows:

“RIP Joey. You were a real one. You always showed love and support to me and the whole STL rap scene. You had so much talent and potential. You will be missed bro. Prayers up for your family and friends.

“I can’t believe this man. Jumpman was one of the coolest and most humble dudes I ever met. He always had a smile on his face and a positive vibe. He was a beast on the mic and a legend in the making. He didn’t deserve this. Rest in peace my brother. #JumpmanJoeyForever”

“This is heartbreaking. Joey was a friend and a mentor to me. He taught me so much about the rap game and the music industry. He was always there for me when I needed him. He was a great rapper and an even greater person. I love you bro. I hope you’re in a better place.

“I’m speechless. Jumpman was one of my favorite rappers. I grew up listening to his music and watching his videos. He inspired me to pursue my dreams and never give up. He was a role model and a hero to me and many others. He was taken from us too soon. Rest in paradise Jumpman Joey. #JumpmanJoeyFanForLife”

What’s Next?

As the investigation into Jumpman Joey’s murder continues, many questions remain unanswered. Who killed him and why? Was it a random act of violence or a targeted attack? Was it related to his rap career or his personal life? Will justice be served?

While the authorities are working to find the answers, the rap community in St. Louis and beyond is hoping for closure and peace. They are also honoring Joey’s legacy and keeping his memory alive through his music and his message.

Joey was a rapper who loved his city, his family, his friends, and his fans. He was a rapper who had a passion, a vision, and a dream. He was a rapper who left a mark on the world.

He was Jumpman Joey, and he will never be forgotten.