Young Scooter, a rising Atlanta rapper whose real name was Kenneth Edward Bailey, tragically died while in police custody on Friday night, prompting an investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Originally from Walterboro, South Carolina, Young Scooter had made a significant impact on the Atlanta music scene, and tributes have poured in from fellow artists, including rapper Meek Mill, who expressed condolences and praised Scooter’s contributions to the community.
The incident unfolded in the Lakewood neighborhood of Southeast Atlanta, following a 911 call reporting a dispute involving a weapon. When police arrived at the scene, they were met with chaos, including claims that shots had been fired and a female victim was dragged back into a residence. Two men fled the house as officers attempted to establish contact, with Bailey among those who escaped by jumping over two fences.
According to the Atlanta Police Department (APD), after jumping the fences, Bailey was found with a leg injury that appeared to have resulted from the fall. Initial reports clarified that no shots were fired by the police during the pursuit. The APD reported that Bailey was rendered aid at the scene before being transported to Grady Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Medical experts have noted that while the nature of Bailey’s leg injury is concerning, such injuries leading to death are rare. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Craig Wild explained that a severe fracture of the femur can potentially cut the femoral artery, leading to significant blood loss. However, he emphasized that this type of injury is not common, accounting for only 10 to 15 percent of trauma-related deaths.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner has labeled the cause and manner of death as “undetermined,” with an autopsy planned to provide further clarity. The GBI is now conducting an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bailey’s death, which has raised questions and concerns among the public and the rap community.
The APD has faced scrutiny regarding the incident, with some observers questioning the police’s actions during the pursuit. Officials have reiterated that there was no police involvement in any shooting and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. As the community mourns the loss of Young Scooter, many are left seeking answers about the events that led to this tragic outcome.
As the investigation progresses, many in Atlanta and beyond are calling for transparency and accountability regarding the circumstances of Bailey’s death, hoping that the autopsy results will shed light on what transpired during that fateful night.