Man Shot Near Durham Shopping Center Tied to Local Rap Group, Deputies Investigate

Victim drives himself to Carlie C’s parking lot after being shot elsewhere, officials say

DURHAM COUNTY, N.C. — A Monday evening shooting in Durham County has left one man injured and raised new questions following recent violence connected to a local rap group.

Deputies with the Durham County Sheriff’s Office responded on March 23 around 6:30 p.m. to the 3700 block of Wake Forest Highway, where they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound outside a shopping center near Carlie C’s grocery store.

Investigators say the victim was likely shot at another location and then drove himself to the shopping center seeking help.

Victim Hospitalized, Injuries Not Life-Threatening

Authorities confirmed the victim was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

At the scene, deputies located a small silver vehicle with a bullet hole in the driver’s side door, which is believed to be connected to the shooting.

As of now, the victim’s identity has not been officially released, and investigators have not shared details about a suspect.

Possible Connection to Local Rap Group

While officials have not confirmed identities, reports indicate the victim is believed to be a member of the Durham-based rap group 83 Babies.

The development comes amid a string of violent incidents involving individuals connected to the group.

Spectacular Magazine reported that just 10 days earlier, two men—including former member Tevin Burney—were found shot to death inside a vehicle near North Roxboro Street.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the two cases are connected, stating only that the latest shooting appears to be isolated at this time.

History of Violence Raises Community Concerns

The group has previously been linked to a high-profile case in 2019, when Antonio “Lil Tony” Davenport was convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the fatal shooting of 9-year-old Z’yon Person.

Investigators said Davenport mistakenly targeted the wrong vehicle in what was believed to be a gang-related incident.

With multiple incidents now tied to individuals associated with the group, concerns are growing about ongoing violence and retaliation in the area.

Investigation Ongoing

The Durham County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the shooting and is working to determine where the incident originally occurred and who may be responsible.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Durham County Sheriff’s Office at (919) 560-0900.