KEY POINTS

  • Goonew was fatally shot by an unidentified suspect on March 18
  • Goonew's memorial event titled "The Last Show" was conducted at Bliss Night Club, Sunday
  • The nightclub has apologized after the video of the event went viral on social media

The body of a Maryland rapper who was murdered last month was displayed at a memorial service at a nightclub in Washington D.C. on Sunday. A video showing the propped-up corpse of the popular rapper in an upright position, adorned in designer clothing and crown, while the mourners partied around him has gone viral on social media.

Markelle Morrow, popularly known as Goonew, was fatally shot in District Heights, Maryland, by an unidentified suspect on March 18. The 24-year-old rapper's family arranged for his homegoing celebration at Bliss Night Club in Washington D.C, weeks after his death. The memorial event titled "The Last Show" charged an entry fee for the venue of $40, as reported by New York Post.

The following video might be disturbing for some viewers, viewer discretion is advised.

After the video of the bizarre event viral on social media, many of Goonew's fans came forward protesting, calling it disrespectful and obscene.

"No way Goonew mama approved that (stuff) that's so sad and disrespectful," a fan who was upset with the event said.

"If y’all saw that video with Goonew’s body y’all can’t tell me this society ain’t already collapsed ..." another viewer wrote on Twitter.

It was initially unclear if the figure was Goonew’s actual corpse or a wax figure, however, Bliss Nightclub later confirmed that it was the rapper's dead body that was displayed on the stage.

Meanwhile, Bliss issued a statement Monday apologizing to the offended fans and sharing their condolences to Goonew's family. The club said the event was conducted at their venue after they were contacted by a local funeral home for the rapper's home-going celebration.

"Bliss was never made aware of what would transpire. We sincerely apologize to all those who may be upset or offended. Please keep Goonew’s family and friends in your prayers at this difficult time," the statement issued on their Instagram page read.

Meanwhile, the police are seeking information regarding the slaying and have offered a $25,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest.

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representational image pixabay