Philadelphia Rapper LGP Qua Fatally Shot in Suspected Robbery at Age 30

LGP Qua, a famed Philadelphia rapper, was tragically shot dead at the age of 30 on Sunday

Philadelphia rapper LGP Qua, born Qidere Johnson, was tragically shot and killed on Sunday during a suspected attempted robbery in the city's Juniata Park neighborhood. The 30-year-old artist, known for his passionate lyrics and community-driven message, was pronounced dead at Temple University Hospital at 4:56 p.m.

According to authorities, the shooting occurred shortly before 4:40 p.m. when Johnson was reportedly approached by two masked assailants attempting to steal his gold chains. During the altercation, he was shot in the chest. The suspects fled the scene, and no arrests have been made. Police are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Johnson (pictured with Snoop Dogg) was known for speaking on the challenges about being a young black man in Philadelphia

Johnson rose to prominence with tracks like New York Freestyle, which highlighted the incarceration of rapper Meek Mill, and Corner Store, a vivid depiction of life in North Philadelphia. LGP Qua often used his music to speak about the struggles of growing up as a young Black man in inner-city Philadelphia. He branded himself “the voice of the youth” and was admired for his efforts to inspire change and uplift his community through hip-hop.

The rapper had previously served time in jail in 2016 before fully committing to his music career. Over the years, he gained national attention and was photographed with high-profile artists such as Snoop Dogg, Chance the Rapper, and Megan Thee Stallion.

The independent rapper was reportedly approached by two masked men who attempted to steal his gold chains from around his neck before shooting him in the chest, police said

Following his death, an Instagram memorial page was launched to provide updates on funeral arrangements and honor his legacy. A post on the page read: “Rest In Peace to Qidere ‘LGP Qua’ Johnson. A kid with a dream that turned to a man with a vision. He had dreams of bettering his community using rap to influence the mindsets of the youth. So young, so much talent.”

Tributes poured in from across the music world. Meek Mill posted a video of Johnson on his Instagram story, writing: “Killing ambitious young bulls like this on Mother’s Day is a Philly type of thing… sh** will make you different. Prayers to your family & let’s collect some of them guns, sh** sad out there.”

The Corner Store hitmaker (pictured with Chance the Rapper) started rapping as a child and later pursued it as a career after serving time in jail in 2016

Swizz Beatz expressed his grief, saying, “Sh** wack man rest up King,” while DJ Kid Capri added, “I am so hurt behind this. Wow, I can’t believe it. On Mother’s Day too, imagine what his mother is going through. So bad!” Rapper Dee-1 wrote: “This is so heartbreaking. I’m praying for Philly and praying for this young brother’s family. We gotta do better.”

As the investigation continues, community members and fans mourn the loss of a voice who turned his hardships into hope and dedicated his artistry to social uplift.