New bodycam footage related to the tragic death of rapper Young Dolph has gone viral, offering a fresh perspective on the events surrounding his shooting. The footage has reignited discussions about the incident that shook the hip-hop community on November 17, 2021, when Dolph, born Adolf Robert Thornton Jr., was shot and killed in broad daylight outside Makita’s Homemade Butter Cookies in Memphis, Tennessee.
The newly released footage includes chilling details from the trial of the suspects involved in the murder. One of the alleged shooters, Cornelius Smith, testified that he and his accomplice, Justin Johnson, were promised a substantial payout for their actions. Smith described the moment he opened fire on Dolph, explaining, “I was shooting through glass” as he aimed for the rapper standing by the window. The harrowing nature of his testimony highlights the calculated approach taken in this tragic assassination.
Young Dolph was a prominent figure in the rap industry, known for his independence and hustle. Born in Chicago and raised in Memphis, he turned down a reported $22 million record deal to maintain control of his label, Paper Route Empire. His 2016 debut album, “King of Memphis,” and subsequent projects solidified his status as a respected artist with a strong connection to his community.
The aftermath of Dolph’s death saw an outpouring of grief from fans and peers alike. A makeshift memorial sprang up outside the cookie shop, and Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland acknowledged the impact of the loss, calling it a painful reminder of the consequences of violent crime. The investigation quickly identified several suspects, including Justin Johnson and Cornelia Smith, who were charged as the shooters. Hernandez Goven was alleged to be the mastermind behind the hit, while Jamarcus Johnson, Justin’s half-brother, was booked as an accessory.
The complexities of the case were further revealed during the September 2024 trial, where prosecutors suggested that Anthony “Big Jook” Mims, the late brother of rapper Yo Gotti, had placed a $100,000 bounty on Dolph’s head. This allegation pointed to a longstanding rivalry between Young Dolph’s Paper Route Empire and Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG), which reportedly began in 2016. The tension had manifested in various incidents, including violent confrontations and diss tracks.
As the trial unfolded, Smith’s testimony provided a firsthand account of the shooting, which he described in a dispassionate manner, further unsettling the courtroom. He revealed that he and Johnson had been following Dolph, indicating that the murder was not a random act but rather a premeditated hit. The trial also exposed deeper motivations, suggesting that the murder stemmed from a history of animosity rather than a mere robbery gone wrong.
The legal proceedings have faced delays, with Goven’s trial initially scheduled for March 2025 now pushed to July 2025. This has raised concerns about the potential for lost evidence and witness testimony over time. Meanwhile, Smith’s cooperation with prosecutors has sparked debate within the community, with some labeling it as “snitching,” a serious accusation in certain circles.
Young Dolph’s legacy continues to resonate, not just through his music but also through his philanthropic efforts. He frequently supported local causes and contributed to educational initiatives in Memphis, solidifying his status as a community hero. Tragically, his death follows a disturbing trend in which many successful artists face violence in their hometowns, often fueled by jealousy and rivalry.
As the legal drama unfolds, the impact of Young Dolph’s life and career remains significant. His contributions to the hip-hop scene and his commitment to his community have left an indelible mark that continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists. The upcoming trial promises to reveal more details about the motivations and planning behind this tragic event, but the full truth may remain elusive, particularly after the death of key individuals involved in the case.
In the wake of his passing, Young Dolph’s music continues to thrive, with fans celebrating his legacy and the authenticity he brought to the industry. The ongoing discussions surrounding his murder highlight broader societal issues, particularly the violence that often accompanies success in the hip-hop world. As Memphis and the wider music community reflect on Dolph’s life, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those who rise from humble beginnings to achieve greatness.