Rapper Young Dolph Murdered at a Memphis Bakery Ahead of Thanksgiving Charity Tradition
Article Highlights:
- What we know about Young Dolph’s murder
- The reaction
- What The King of Memphis will be remembered for
Young Dolph was shot and killed in Memphis on Nov. 17, 2021. Here’s what we know, the reactions to the murder, and the legacy the rapper left behind.
The incident
Young Dolph was in Makeda’s Butter Cookie, a bakery he frequented regularly, when he was shot. Maurice Hill, the owner of the business, told FOX13 that his employee said the rapper walked into the shop to buy some cookies. Shortly after he arrived, someone drove up and shot and killed him. At this time, no arrests have been made and the motive for the shooting is unknown.
“This shooting is another example of the senseless gun violence we have seen far too often locally and nationwide,” said Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis during a press conference Wednesday night. “Too many families, too many mothers, too many fathers have suffered in our city, and quite frankly, I think we are all tired of it.”
“We are committed to working with the community to stop these senseless murders,” she continued.
Davis also said she and the rest of the Memphis Police are “dedicated to bringing those responsible for today’s shooting and others to justice.” She urged anyone with information regarding Young Dolph’s murder to come forward.
The reaction to Young Dolph’s murder
Just after the killing took place, hundreds of people flocked to the area where they mourned the loss of the Memphis icon and called for an end to gun violence, FOX13 reports. Police worked to push the crowd back to complete their investigation. Airways Boulevard, a major Memphis street, was shut down to do so.
“Tonight, we strongly encourage everyone to stay home, if you do not have to be out,” Davis said during the press conference. “We also strongly encourage everyone to remain calm as we actively perform our investigation. The Memphis Police Department is providing an increased presence in areas of the city that might be directly impacted by this unfortunate incident.”
Online, people posted about the loss of Young Dolph. Artists like Gucci Mane, Rick Ross, and Megan Thee Stallion wrote about the heartbreaking event. Such local leaders as Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and Steve Cohen also commented on the event.
Young Dolph’s Memphis legacy
Young Dolph, whose real name is Adolph Robert Thornton, Jr., was deeply loved by the Memphis community. He first came on the music scene in 2014 with his mixtape, “High Class Street Music 4″ and his single, “Preach.” In 2016, he debuted his first studio album, “King of Memphis.”
Known for his big heart, Young Dolph was in town visiting his aunt who has cancer and to hand out Thanksgiving turkeys for the Memphis Athletic Ministries charity, according to the rapper’s cousin Mareno Myers. In addition to his Thanksgiving charity participation, Young Dolph was also known for mentoring school children and donating money to his former high school, Hamilton High School.
