British rapper Cadet dies in car crash on way to Keele SU gig

British rapper Cadet has died in a car crash on his way to perform at Keele University.

The 28-year-old rapper was a passenger in a taxi which collided with a van in Betley, Staffordshire in the early hours of this morning, police said.

Photo: Youtube / NHS Give Blood  

News of his death was shared on the rapper’s official Instagram account.

"We the family of Blaine Cameron Johnson otherwise known as Cadet (Underrated Legend) would like to share the sad news that during the early hours of 9th February 2019 he passed away."

His account has since been set to private.

In a statement, Staffordshire Police said: "Emergency services attended and a passenger of the Toyota, a 28-year-old man from London, sadly died at the scene.

"The drivers of both vehicles, a 36-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent and a 22-year-old man from Crewe, were taken to the Royal Stoke University Hospital with serious injuries.

"Three further passengers of the Toyota were treated at Leighton Hospital in Crewe."

Police are appealing for witnesses or relevant dashcam footage to contact 101, quoting incident 45 of 9 February.

Keele Students’ Union expressed their sadness about Cadet’s shock death in a statement via Twitter.

“We are deeply saddened to hear the tragic news that Cadet passed away en route to Keele in the early hours of this morning. We would like to offer our sincere condolences to his loved ones at this difficult time.”

Tributes have been flooding in for the popular rapper. Cadet's cousin Krept said he was “heartbroken”.  

My life will never be the same again. I love you and will forever miss you. I cant believe it. I am heartbroken. Rest in peace cuz. You finally started getting the recognition you deserved. Im so proud of you. My left lung. Im devestated and broken right now pic.twitter.com/125pWPMzO1

— TALLY (@kreptplaydirty) February 9, 2019

Wireless Festival - where he was due to perform in July - have announced his performance slot will be kept open as a time to reflect on his memory.