Brian Todd Boucher, widely known by his stage name Ras Ajai, has died after a fatal shooting in St. Catherine, Jamaica. He was 47.
Ras Ajai, who portrayed Claudie Massop in the 2024 biographical film Bob Marley: One Love, was reportedly attacked on Saturday, August 1, while walking with another person in Waterford, St. Catherine. According to reports, armed assailants travelling in a vehicle opened fire before fleeing the scene. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation by the St. Catherine South Police. 
The actor and reggae musician was taken to Spanish Town General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The second victim sustained injuries and remains hospitalized for treatment, according to reports.
Before making his acting debut, Ras Ajai built a name for himself in Jamaica’s reggae and dancehall scene. Raised by his adoptive family in Waterford, he became known for his self-described “ghetto gospel” style of music. His breakthrough came in 2012 with the single Pack Up Yuh Tings, while his 2017 track Smoking Loud became his biggest commercial success.
In 2024, he gained international recognition after playing Claudie Massop in Bob Marley: One Love. The film tells the story of reggae legend Bob Marley and features Massop as one of the influential figures who helped pave the way for the historic 1978 One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica. 
Ras Ajai also attended the Jamaican premiere of the film, where he was among the cast members present during the visit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Following news of his death, fans, fellow entertainers and supporters shared heartfelt tributes on social media, remembering him for both his contributions to reggae music and his memorable performance in Bob Marley: One Love. 
