Former NYPD Police Chief John Chell has shared new insight into how Pop Smoke became connected to a larger gang investigation before his tragic passing. Chell opened up about the situation during the November 27th episode of The John Rondi Show, offering one of the most detailed public explanations to date.
Chell, who retired in October 2025 after a long career with the department, revisited several hip hop-related cases from his tenure before turning his attention to the Brooklyn star. He began by laying out the timeline from 2019 to 2020 and described Pop Smoke as an electrifying new presence in New York’s drill scene. Born Bashar Barakah Jackson, Pop was from Canarsie and, according to Chell, was known to have close ties to local crews. Chell said Pop was connected to the G Stone Crips, a group the department viewed as a significant presence in the area. His rise quickly caught the attention of investigators who were already closely monitoring the crew.
Chell explained that although Pop Smoke was on their radar, authorities did not have much direct evidence implicating him. What changed was the high-profile incident involving a Rolls-Royce Wraith in 2019. Chell claimed that Pop took the vehicle from Los Angeles and brought it back to New York. NYPD made arrests connected to the case and used it as leverage while trying to separate Pop from street alliances. Chell said that situations like this can be complicated because artists often remain close to the people they grew up around, even as they begin earning millions and gaining fame.
The department’s broader investigation never reached its next phase. Before any progress could be made, Pop Smoke was killed during a home invasion in Los Angeles in February 2020. Chell reflected on the loss and noted Pop’s distinct sound, which helped drive the energy of New York drill at the time.