Rapper J. Cole canceled a show in Sacramento after one of his tour crew members died in a trucking accident.
His label, Dreamville, said in a statement Thursday that the rapper’s show taking place that night at the Golden 1 Center had been canceled following “the tragic passing of a member of the touring crew in a trucking accident this morning.”
“Our thoughts are with the crew member’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement continued.
According to CBS News, the California Highway Patrol said a big rig overturned on southbound Interstate 5 in Yolo County early Thursday morning, killing the driver.
A representative for the musician told the news outlet that the driver had been transporting equipment from Seattle, the latest stop on the tour, to the Sacramento venue.
Authorities said the driver drifted onto the right shoulder and attempted to return to the road, but lost control of the vehicle and it overturned.
“It's unknown at this time, may have been a distraction or fell asleep. Unfortunately, the solo occupant did not survive the crash,” said Sgt. David Barker of the California Highway Patrol.
The arena said fans who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster will automatically receive refunds. Remaining ticket holders may seek refunds through their original point of purchase.
The representatives did not state if the show would be rescheduled for a later date. The Independent has contacted the musician’s representatives for comment.
J. Cole, best known for hits “No Role Modelz” and “Work Out,” is currently on The Fall-Off Tour, with dates scheduled across North America, wrapping September 23 in his hometown — Fayetteville, North Carolina — at the Crown Coliseum.
The “Power Trip” musician will then head to Europe, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, finishing up December 12 in Johannesburg.
Fans have been sharing their condolences to the family of the late crew member online, with one writing on X: “Was gonna see J Cole for the first time tonight and yes I'm sad, but a life was lost and that’s more important. RIP to the crew member.”
“Sending prayers and condolences to J Cole, his crew, and the family of the person who lost their life,” said another. “No concert is more important than taking time to grieve.”
The rapper rose to fame after the release of his debut album Cole World: The Sideline Story, and went on to release acclaimed albums Born Sinner, Forest Hills Drive and 4 Your Eyez Only.
He has received two Grammys for “A Lot” with 21 Savage, in the Best Rap Song category in 2020, and for “All My Life” with Lil Durk, winning Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2024.
