This month delivered a dramatic flip for Jacksonville’s rap group. Ksoo, as soon as seen as a rising voice within the metropolis’s drill motion, was convicted of first-degree homicide within the 2020 capturing of fellow rapper Lil Buck. The verdict represents a steep downfall for an artist whose profession had lengthy been entangled with violence and controversy. Tried alongside co-defendant ATK Scotty, his case has stirred debate about the place music ends and road rivalries start.

Prosecutors mentioned Ksoo, Scotty, and Dominique “Butta” Barner carried out a premeditated assault on Lil Buck exterior an Arlington buying middle. Witnesses testified that Ksoo fired the deadly photographs. Investigators imagine the battle was fueled by a diss observe geared toward Ksoo’s half-brother, a reminder of how inventive rivalries can spill past music and into lethal battle.

Jacksonville Rap Faces Tumult After Ksoo’s Murder Conviction

After the conviction, State Attorney Melissa Nelson underscored the case’s significance. “Five years ago, Hakeem Robinson and Leroy Whitaker stalked and murdered a man in broad daylight over disputes related to drill rap. Today, a jury held them accountable for their flagrant actions. This is a tremendous achievement by law enforcement and our team that removes two killers from our streets. We appreciate the jury for their time and commitment.”

The conviction leaves each Ksoo and Scotty dealing with the prospect of life in jail. Defense lawyer Chris Carson laid it out bluntly: “Since this is not a death penalty case, the sentence will effectively be life in prison.” Ksoo’s sentencing is ready for September 8, a call that may form not simply his future, however how his story is remembered inside hip-hop.

Even because the authorized course of performs out, Ksoo continues to attract assist from buddies and friends. Comedian Lil Duval shared a video name with him throughout a YFN Lucci live performance, posting, “That boy Ksoo was at Lucci concert last night. I tried to talk to him but I couldn’t hear [sh*t] he was saying [laughing emojis],” alongside a photograph of Ksoo smiling on display screen.