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Rufus Lee Cooper III, widely known as Young Noble and a member of Tupac Shakur’s iconic rap group Outlawz, has died at the age of 47.
His death was confirmed by fellow Outlawz member E.D.I. Mean, who revealed on Instagram that Noble died by suicide.
“Today I got some of the worst and most unexpected news imaginable. My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning,” E.D.I. wrote. “Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper.”
He also urged the public to respect the family’s privacy and highlighted the ongoing struggle many face with mental health:
“Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON YOUR FOLKS!”
A tribute post was also reshared by Tupac’s official Instagram account, which is managed by the late rapper’s estate.
Young Noble, born in Sierra Madre, California, joined the Outlawz in the mid-1990s after linking up with Tupac during the height of his career. He was known for his loyalty to the group and remained active in music and social commentary in the years that followed Tupac’s death.
