Bay Area rap legend Too Short is mourning the death of his brother after a deadly shooting on Jan. 29. Oakland police confirmed the death of Wayne Shaw, 61. He was the older brother of Too Short, whose real name is Todd Anthony Shaw.
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The shooting happened in the early hours of the day. Police responded to ShotSpotter alerts just after 7 a.m. local time, where they found the victim. CBS News reports that a preliminary investigation indicates that multiple assailants were trying to force their way onto a property on the 1200 block of 49th Ave in Oakland. When Shaw exited the property, he was shot multiple times.
Police detectives for the Oakland PD have taken over the case.
Too Short and His Brothers Were Born and Raised in Oakland
Too Short posted two emotional videos to his Instagram account in the wake of the news. Both featured the rapper riding in a car, wiping away tears.
“Real tears,” he captioned one video, adding, “Aint really replying to a lot of texts or answering calls right now. I can’t,” in the second.
Many of Too Short’s friends and fellow rap stars took to his comments to share their condolences.
“Sending my deepest condolences loved one,” wrote E-40. “Wishing you strength & comfort. R.I.P. Wayne.”
MC Hammer commented, “My deepest condolences and prayers for you and The Family.”
“Condolences to you and your entire family!” shared Monica. “May God Grant you all some peace during this time!”
Many others offered their condolences, thoughts and prayers on the tragedy.
Too Short first came on the scene in 1983, after getting his start in Oakland, selling CDs out of his car. His hits include “Gettin’ It,” “The Ghetto” and “Blow the Whistle” — the last of which has recently become a minor anthem for the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2025 Super Bowl run.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is asked to contact the Homicide Section at (510) 238-3821 or the TIP LINE at 238-7950. Additionally, anyone with videos or photos that could assist with the investigation, is asked to send them to cidvideos@oaklandca.gov.