New Details in Florida Casino Shooting
Police are reportedly stating that an associate of Lil Tjay shot Offset following a confrontation initiated by the Bronx rapper outside a Florida casino. The incident, which took place on the evening of Monday, April 6, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., has sparked significant attention as authorities continue their investigation.
According to a TMZ report published on Tuesday, April 7, a probable cause affidavit alleges that Lil Tjay directed members of his party to initiate a physical altercation with another group of men, which included Offset. The report claims that security footage shows Lil Tjay exiting his vehicle, identifying Offset, and directing his group toward the Migos rapper before the fight broke out. Police further allege that Lil Tjay recorded the incident on his mobile device.
Legal Fallout and Ongoing Investigation
Following the shooting, Lil Tjay, born Tione Merritt, was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license. Offset, who was the individual shot during the altercation, was transported to Memorial Regional Hospital. He is currently reported to be in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
Lil Tjay was released on bond on Tuesday. Upon his release, the 24-year-old artist publicly claimed that Offset had cooperated with law enforcement regarding the incident. However, Lil Tjay’s attorney, Dawn Florio, has issued a statement refuting any involvement by her client in the shooting itself.
“Lil Tjay has not been shot, nor has Lil Tjay been charged with any shooting. Any reporting to the contrary is false.” — Dawn Florio, Attorney for Lil Tjay
NBC 6 South Florida reports that two individuals were taken into custody in connection with the incident. While one person has been detained, authorities are still working to identify other potential suspects involved in the shooting. XXL has reached out to the Seminole Police Department for further comment as the investigation remains active.