In a shocking turn of events, Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Durk has been arrested in Florida on federal charges connected to a 2022 shooting incident in Los Angeles. The charges allege that Durk orchestrated an attempted revenge killing of fellow rapper Quando Rondo, which resulted in the tragic death of Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a Robinson, aged 24.
According to an FBI affidavit released on Friday, the 32-year-old artist, whose real name is Durk Banks, faces serious charges of conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. The incident in question took place on August 19, 2022, at a gas station in Los Angeles, where Robinson was fatally shot.
Durk’s arrest occurred on Thursday night in South Florida as he reportedly tried to flee the country. The FBI has indicated that five other members of his Chicago-based rap collective, known as “Only the Family” (OTF), have also been detained in connection with the case. Furthermore, authorities suggest that there may be at least two additional arrests pending.
FBI Agent Sarah Corcoran detailed in her affidavit that members of OTF have engaged in violent activities, including murder and assault, under the direction of Durk, with the aim of maintaining their status within the collective. Lil Durk’s representatives did not respond to requests for comments following the allegations.
The background of this case is rooted in a violent feud that began with the November 2020 killing of OTF rapper King Von, who was shot dead at an Atlanta nightclub following a confrontation with Rondo. The altercation escalated when a friend of Rondo’s allegedly opened fire, resulting in Von’s death. King Von, whose real name was Dayvon Bennett, was known for his hit singles like “Crazy Story” and “Took Her to the O.”
Following Von’s death, authorities claim that Durk openly expressed intentions to place a bounty on Rondo, whose real name is Tyquian Bowman. Nearly two years later, a plot to carry out the murder began to take shape.
On August 18, 2022, members of Durk’s crew discovered that Rondo was staying at a hotel in Los Angeles. Court documents reveal that associates Deandre Wilson, Keith Jones, David Lindsey, Asa Houston, and another unnamed individual traveled from Chicago to San Diego, then drove to Los Angeles, all financed by Durk. Corcoran’s affidavit states that Durk allegedly communicated with his associates about flight arrangements, instructing them to avoid booking tickets under names associated with him.
Evidence indicates that Durk was present in the San Fernando Valley on the same day as the planned attack, with video footage confirming his location. Upon reaching Los Angeles, the OTF members reportedly met with Kayon Grant, a significant associate within the group, who had arrived via private jet. Grant assisted in securing hotel accommodations for the group and provided them with funds.
The unfolding events have sent shockwaves through the music industry, raising questions about the implications of violence and gang affiliations within hip-hop culture. As the legal proceedings progress, the impact of these allegations on Durk’s career remains to be seen, especially following his recent Grammy win for Best Melodic Rap Performance for the song “All My Life,” featuring J. Cole.
Durk’s rise in the music world has been marked by both critical acclaim and personal controversies. His collaborations with high-profile artists, including Drake, have solidified his position within the industry, but these new developments pose a significant threat to his reputation and future endeavors.
The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing investigations and potential further arrests in the pipeline. As the legal process unfolds, fans and observers alike will be watching closely to see how this case affects not only Durk’s career but also the broader conversation surrounding violence in the hip-hop community.
