Young Dolph, a popular rapper based in Memphis, dies at 36

(CNN) – Young dolph, the rapper behind albums like “Rich Slave,” was killed at age 36 in a deadly shooting in Memphis on Wednesday, according to multiple local media reports.

“All of us at APA are shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of our dear friend and customer, Young Dolph,” a representative of the management company said in a statement to Variety. “The world has lost an icon, a great man, and a much loved artist whose life ended too soon. His dedication, drive, hard work, and loyalty to everyone around him was always his priority and we will miss him deeply. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time. “

CNN reached out to APA representatives for comment.

Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Robert Thornton, Jr., was reportedly shopping for cookies at a bakery in Memphis, Tennessee, when someone approached in a car and shot him.

According to him Memphis Police Department, “There is no suspect at this time.”

Young Dolph, a Chincago native who grew up in Memphis, released his debut album, “King of Memphis,” in 2016. It went on to have several hits, including “Blue Diamonds,” and “RNB” with Megan Thee Stallion. His fifth studio album, “Rich Slave” of 2020, peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 chart.

In 2017, he nearly died in a shooting in Hollywood. He was hospitalized for weeks after sustaining three gunshot wounds.

“I’ve been targeted since I was 17, 18, 19 years old,” Young Dolph told The Guardian about the incident in a 2018 interview. “I just knew it was good.”

He added that he was not “a person who lives in fear.”

Following news of his death, fellow artists and fans paid tribute to Young Dolph.

“God bless Dolph ? Chicago-born indie rapper from Memphis. Loved by millions of people,” Chance the Rapper tweeted. “He always showed love every time I saw him, this is tragic. God bless his family.”

God bless Dolph ? Real independent Memphis rapper born in chicago. loved by millions of ppl. Always showed love everytime I seen him this is tragic God bless his family man

– Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) November 17, 2021

“DEP my friend Dolph this broke my heart,” wrote Gucci Mane.

RIP to my friend Dolph this broke my heart

– Gucci Mane (@ gucci1017) November 17, 2021