Rapper Activist Obe Noir Chased And Shot Dead, Incident Now Under Investigation

Houston-based rapper and activist Obe Noir, also known as Xavier Roberson, was shot dead early Monday morning near 2900 Fannin Street. It appears that the 31-year-old was being chased by two men from a vehicle and then shot when they cornered Noir.

According to witnesses, Roberson was spotted running down the street after hearing gunfire from a distance. The vehicle drover around the block. Then at one point, two men got off the vehicle and shot Noir. Both boarded the vehicle after shooting down the 31-year-old and fled the scene, last seen turning onto San Jacinto Street. Roberson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities are now seeking help from the public who can provide leads to the fatal shooting. Those with information can contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Before becoming a rapper, Roberson played college basketball for Texas Christian University and the University of South Alabama. He also played professionally in Germany, Mexico, Argentina and Colombia.

Aside from music, Noir also had an apparel line (The Longway). However, he was best known for his activism, working with other rappers like Cal Wayne and Trae Tha Truth.

A GoFundMe campaign has been put up for Noir to raise funds for his memorial. He is survived by his daughter Dakota and some family members and friends throughout the world. Roberson was described as humble, kind, driven, intelligent, and loving.

"He captivated every person that he encountered, to know Zay was to love Zay," a description on the page read. "His spirit lives on in all of us, whose lives he touched."