A South African rapper has disturbingly passed away, aged 28 after plunging onto stage in front of his panicked fans.

Costa Titch, the government name Constantinos Tsobanoglou, appeared to lose consciousness while he was performing at the Ultra Music Festival on March 11. He later passed on in the hospital.

His family have confirmed the news of his demise and thanked emergency responders and “all those present in his last hours on this earth.”

They announced in a communique on his Instagram account:

“Death has tragically knocked at our door. Robbing us of our beloved son, brother and grandson, Constantinos Tsobanoglou (28), who South Africa had come to love and idolize under his stage name ‘Costa Titch’. “It is with great pain that we find ourselves having to acknowledge his passing at this time.

“We are thankful for the emergency responders and all those present in his last hours on this earth. As a family, we are faced with a difficult time as we try to make sense of what has befallen us and ask that we be afforded time and space to gather ourselves.

“The Tsobanoglou family thanks you for the love and support that you have given to our son and may you continue to uplift him even in spirit. Please keep us in your prayers and uplifted in the Lord.”

Heartbroken fans and friends flocked to comment, with one typing: “Shocked and Sad. Thank You for being a part of making my dream a reality. The @ampedafrica Family sends our sincere condolences to one one of its #Ampedbassadors Rest well Brother.”

While another commented: “Your star continues to rise, even in your ascension. In our hearts & the sky, you’ll live forever. Sincerest condolences to his loved ones, friends, family & the Titch Gang.”

A third composed: “Just discovered this talented bro just months ago & now he’s gone. This hurts, and it sucks!”