Another rapper killed in Queens

(Springfield Gardens-WABC, June 19, 2007) (WABC) -- For the second time in a week, police are investigating the murder of a rapper in Queens.

Investigators believe this latest incident may be in retaliation for the murder of rapper "Stack Bundles" last weekend.

The incident happened in a home on 176th Street in Springfield Gardens.

Eyewitness News reporter Ken Rosato has the latest.

Members of the NYPD's crime scene unit removed the pillow believed to be used in the murder of an aspiring rap artist. Twenty-seven year-old Charles Williamson, also known as Charles White, was found shot dead on a sofa at 127-05 176th Street. His killer held the pillow over the victim's head as he pumped two bullets into his skull and another in his leg.

Police say Williamson was shot just after midnight Monday morning, and investigators are looking into the possibility that his death was in retaliation for the murder of another aspiring rapper last week. Requan Elliot, known as "Stack Bundles," was found shot to death in the lobby of his Far Rockaway apartment building. He was 24.

"In the beginning, nobody thought the rappers was going to make any money," neighbor J.D. Williams said. "But next thing you know, these guys was millionaires overnight. So the big boys are gonna step in. They don't allow you to make millions."

Police suspect Williamson and friend Kelvin Brown headed down to Williamson's home in Virginia on June 11th, right after Elliot's murder.

They say the pair returned to New York Saturday night. Just 24 hours later, moments after Brown had left Williamson in the Springfield Gardens house, police say he heard shots ring out. Authorities say he called police and ran back inside, only to find his friend's lifeless body. Neighbors say the murder isn't surprising.

"If it can happen on Lexington Avenue and 54th Street or 74th Street, it can happen in Springfield Gardens," Williams said.

Police say Williamson had several prior drug arrests, but say they can't determine at this point if the incident may be drug related.

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