Brooklyn rapper Ka, or Kaseem Ryan, has died, his family announced via his Instagram page on Monday. He was 52-years-old.
"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka, who died unexpectedly in New York City on October 12, at the age of 52. Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service — to his city, to his community and to his music," the statement said.
Ryan served in the New York City Fire Department for over two decades, a role his family said encapsulated his love for his community.
"As a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, he put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens. Ka 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, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums. Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister We kindly ask that the privacy of Ka’s family and loved ones be respected as they grieve this incalculable loss.”
Ryan's rise within the ranks included a promotion as a fire captain at Engine Co. 235 in Bedford-Stuyvesant in 2009, one year after branching out a solo artist with his project, Iron Works, according to The Source. The publication further reported that Ryan's career blossomed while he was an underground Hip-Hop artist and was part of the group Natural Elements.
