Ka, Brooklyn Rapper and 9/11 First Responder, Dies at 52

variety.com:

Steven J. Horowitz Senior Music Writer Ka, a renowned independent Brooklyn rapper, producer and 9/11 first responder, died at the age of 52.

The emcee, whose real name is Kaseem Ryan, unexpectedly passed away on Oct. 12, according to a post on his social media accounts.

Throughout his career, the rapper and producer self-released 11 independent albums, and as a member of the New York City Fire Department, he rose the ranks to fire captain and was a first responder on 9/11 following the attacks on the World Trade Center. “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,” reads the post. “Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service — to his city, to his community, and to his music.

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.