TUPAC SHAKUR - NEW B.I.G. INVESTIGATION OPENS

NEW B.I.G. INVESTIGATION OPENS

A fresh investigation into the unsolved 1997 killing of rap star Notorious B.I.G. has been launched in Los Angeles. Police Chief WILLIAM BRATTON is heading a new task force to look into the murder, prompted by a recent wrongful death lawsuit filed by B.I.G.'s mother VOLETTA WALLACE and other relatives. The family accuse rogue police officers of involvement in the killing. Although no new evidence has yet been uncovered to force the enquiry, any that is found could be used to help the city in its argument against the family's claims. The investigation will centre on the theory B.I.G. was killed by a member of the Southside Crips gang as part of a hip-hop feud also involving the slaughter of TUPAC SHAKUR six months earlier. Other allegations under scrutiny are that B.I.G. was killed by a Blood gang member hired by MARION 'SUGE' KNIGHT, the owner of Shakur's record label. Knight denies any involvement in the murder. Notorious B.I.G. - real name CHRISTOPHER WALLACE - was shot dead in the street outside a Los Angeles party in 1997.