Lionel Pickens, rapper known as Chinx, shot to death

Lionel Pickens, a rapper on the rise who was known professionally as Chinx, died after he was shot multiple times in New York early Sunday. He was 31.

A New York Police Department representative told MTV News the bullet-ridden body of Pickens -- a member of French Montana's Coke Boys crew -- was discovered in Queens around 4 a.m. ET, following a 911 call. He was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

A second victim, identified to the media only as a 27-year-old male, was found with multiple gunshot wounds to the back and is now hospitalized in critical condition.

No arrests have been made in connection with the shootings. Police said they think the assailants pulled alongside Chinx's vehicle and fired off several shots. It is unclear who was driving Chinx's car.

"It is with a heavy heart that The Legion Media Group and 4 Kings Management announce the passing of Lionel 'Chinx' Pickens this morning. He was 31," Entertainment Weekly quoted Pickens' management as saying in a statement.

"Chinx was one of the most talented, professional, and determined rappers this industry had to offer," added publicist Chanel Rae. "Further more, he was a friend."