Rapper Lil Tjay was detained in Florida after a shooting near the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood that involved rapper Offset, according to multiple reports. Police said the incident happened early in the morning near the casino's valet area and began after an argument that turned violent.
Authorities said Offset was taken to a hospital after the shooting and was reported in stable condition. Investigators said they were still trying to determine the full sequence of events, including who fired the shots and what triggered the confrontation.
Lil Tjay, whose real name is Tione Jayden Merritt, was arrested in connection with the case and later had a $500 bond, according to reports. His lawyer disputed that he had any role in the shooting, according to the New York Times.
A second person was also detained during the investigation but was not charged, according to reporting from the scene. Police said they were still reviewing evidence and witness statements as they worked to identify everyone involved.
Officers collected evidence at the scene and reviewed security footage from the property. The investigation remained open as detectives continued to piece together the events that led to the shooting.
The case drew wide attention because both men are major names in hip-hop. Lil Tjay is known for songs including "F.N." and "Calling My Phone," while Offset, whose real name is Kiari Kendrell Cephus, rose to fame as a member of Migos and shares children with Cardi B, People reported.
The shooting also revived memories of Migos member Takeoff, who was fatally shot in Houston in 2022. Police said the killing happened outside 810 Billiards & Bowling after a private gathering, and Takeoff was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reports and court filings said the Houston shooting stemmed from a dispute tied to a dice game, with multiple shots fired and two other people wounded. Later charges were filed against Patrick Xavier Clark in connection with Takeoff's death, while another man was charged with weapon offenses.
Officials have not said whether formal charges will be filed in the Lil Tjay case. They said more information would be released as the investigation develops, as per the Los Angeles Times.
