Hip-hop icon Fatman Scoop, whose real name is Isaac Freeman III, experienced a terrifying medical emergency while performing at Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut, on Friday, August 30.
The 53-year-old rapper, who has worked with stars such as Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey, best known for his booming voice, suddenly collapsed on stage, shocking fans and attendees. Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed the incident in a Facebook post.
“Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, aka Fatman Scoop, had a medical emergency on stage. He is being transported by ambulance to the hospital. We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers,” the message read.
Authorities were called to the scene around 8:33 p.m., and medics immediately began rendering aid. Scoop was swiftly transported to the hospital following the collapse.
Footage from the concert, shared on Twitter, shows the rapper in the midst of a high-energy performance. Scoop, who was shirtless and commanding the crowd, was heard urging the audience, “Hamden, make some noise!” before suddenly leaning on the DJ booth and collapsing. Onlookers were visibly concerned as medics in high-visibility vests rushed to the stage, administering chest compressions to the unresponsive artist.
As the concertgoers watched in disbelief, some captured the tense moments on their phones. One attendee could be heard saying, “They’re doing CPR,” while another expressed shock, exclaiming, “Oh my god,” as more people rushed to assist Scoop.
The Hamden Police Department has not yet provided additional details regarding the incident. Some have speculated that Scoop suffered a heart attack, though this has not been confirmed.
