The man shot and killed outside an Edmonton nightclub was a gentle giant with a big heart, family say.

Amin Mohammed Abdullahi, who went by the name Hamza Tyme, died in hospital Sunday after he was shot outside the Tribute Lounge near 81st Avenue and 105th Street.

"He was a role model for the community," said his sister Ayan Mohammed. "He's very well loved. You know — the gentle giant, had a great big heart, was very kind, wouldn't hurt anybody. Obviously this is a big loss for the family."

Abdullahi, 30, was in Edmonton visiting his brother, who was also shot, but is recovering after surgery, Mohammed said.

Mohammed flew in from London, with other family members flying in from Kenya, London and Ottawa, where Abdullahi and his brother grew up.

A GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly $8,000 so far to cover the family's travel and funeral expenses.

Police said that Abdullahi was known to them and that the shooting may be drug or gang-related, but Mohammed disputes that.

"This occurred as a result of an altercation that took place outside of the premises," Mohammed said, adding her brother did not not know the individual, and he was trying to break up a dispute.

"It's definitely not gang or drug-related," said Mohammed. "My brothers are not involved in any gangs. They have no gang affiliations. They are not involved in any drugs. And they are not known to police."

She has contacted EPS, asking that they retract the statement.

"There is a continuous narrative involving ethnic minorities and that it's always associated with gangs or drugs and this is not the case," Mohammed said.

She thanked the community for their condolences and support.​