The music world is in mourning.

Rapper Ka died in New York City Oct. 12, his family confirmed in a statement to social media Oct. 14. He was 52.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka,” his family wrote on Instagram. “Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service-to his city, to his community, and to his music.”

According to the post, Ka was a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department and “put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens.”

While also maintaining his music career, Ka the statement also detailed his career as a firefighter, sharing that he rose “to the rank of FDNY captain and was a first responder on September 11, 2001 during the attacks on the World Trade Center.”

“He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist,” they continued, “including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums.”