In Nipsey Hussle’s Los Angeles Neighborhood, an Outpouring of Grief: ‘He Meant Everything’ (Published 2019)

LOS ANGELES — It had become an inspiring symbol of success in South Los Angeles, but on Monday the Marathon Clothing store was transformed into a makeshift memorial for the rapper Nipsey Hussle, the co-owner, who was fatally shot outside its doors, stunning fans across the city and the music world.

Some prayed and cried, while others left candles, flowers and signs to express their condolences for Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, who had grown up in the Crenshaw area and stayed on to help his neighborhood even after becoming big enough to make it out. A steady flow of passing cars on Slauson Avenue blared tracks from his latest album.

Bela Vega, 28, a fan, fought back tears as she explained how Hussle, 33, had given hope to people who had also grown up around gang violence. His fans and neighbors clung to lyrics and interviews in which he advocated self-improvement; his financial investments in the community, she said, showed he was serious about creating a ladder for other people who had grown up in similar circumstances. But now, his death, and the questions surrounding it, have reignited longstanding fears about violence and despair in the area.

“The story repeats over and over again, and you just ask, ‘When does it stop?’” Ms. Vega said. “This is our community. But do I want my son to grow up over here? No. No.”

Two others were wounded in the shooting, and a suspect has yet to be identified, according to the police.

Hussle remained a regular presence at the strip mall off Crenshaw Boulevard that houses Marathon. Outside the store on Monday, mourners shared stories about times they had summoned up the courage to say hello to him and the smiles he had flashed back.