Skilla Baby Survives Second Shooting: What We Know About the May 22 Attack
This is the second time the artist has been shot
Detroit rapper Skilla Baby, whose real name is Trevon Gardner, is recovering after surviving a drive-by shooting on May 22, 2025 — marking the second time he's been the target of gun violence. The attack took place near the intersection of 8 Mile and Beech Daly, an area long plagued by high crime rates, and has raised fresh concerns about the safety of artists in the city's hip-hop scene.
This latest shooting is eerily similar to a previous incident the rapper endured in 2023, when he was also wounded in a separate attack that many believe was meant to send a message. Fans and fellow artists have taken to social media expressing outrage and support, with some calling for better protection and de-escalation efforts within the Detroit rap community.
According to Fox2 Detroit, an assailant fired over 20 rounds at Skilla Baby's black SUV, causing the vehicle to crash into a nearby building. The 25-year-old artist sustained a gunshot wound to the hand and grazes to the head and back. Despite the severity of the attack, he remained conscious and is expected to make a full recovery.
Skilla Baby's rise in the Detroit rap scene has been marked by his raw storytelling and authentic voice. He gained prominence with his 2019 mixtape Push That Shit Out Skilla and the 2020 track "Womack." In 2022, he signed with Geffen Records and released the LP We Eat the Most. His collaborations with artists like Tee Grizzley and his participation in the "Vultures Eat The Most" tour have further solidified his status in the industry.
Beyond his music, Skilla Baby has been an advocate against gun violence. In February 2024, he partnered with Detroit city officials for a gun buyback event aimed at reducing gun violence in the community.
An ongoing problem
This recent incident marks the second time Skilla Baby has been shot. In July 2022, he survived another shooting, which he later credited as a turning point in his career.
The Redford Township Police Department is currently investigating the shooting. No suspects have been identified, and the motive remains unclear. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Fans and fellow artists have expressed concern and support for Skilla Baby on social media, wishing him a speedy recovery. As he recuperates, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by artists in environments plagued by violence.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to local news outlets and official statements from Skilla Baby's representatives.
Originally published on Music Times
