In a tragic turn of events, the Memphis music scene was rocked by the shooting deaths of rapper Sayso P and the injury of prominent Houston rapper Sauce Walka in broad daylight outside a downtown hotel. The incident occurred on March 22, 2025, at approximately 2:40 PM near the Western Hotel, located just across the street from the FedEx Arena. This area is generally known for its safety, making the sudden outbreak of gunfire all the more shocking.
Video footage captured by a bystander showed a man lying on the ground, surrounded by police and paramedics. Despite immediate medical attention, Sayso P, whose real name is Latori Sayso, was pronounced dead at the scene. Sauce Walka, born Albert Walker Mondane, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg but is now reported to be in stable condition and expected to survive.
The police believe the two men were specifically targeted during the shooting, although Sauce Walka’s family has stated he was not the intended target. Witnesses reported that assailants emerged from a white vehicle, opening fire on the rappers as they stood in the valet area. Investigators are currently using real-time traffic camera footage to track the vehicle involved in the attack.
Sayso P, a 27-year-old artist who grew up in Memphis, had moved to Las Vegas before relocating to Miami. He had recently signed with Sauce Walka’s label, TSF, and was making strides in his music career. His song “Back in Memphis,” released shortly before his death, includes lyrics that eerily foreshadow his tragic fate. Friends and colleagues have expressed condolences, highlighting the dangers that come with returning to one’s hometown, especially for those who have found success in the music industry.
Sauce Walka and Sayso P had been enjoying a night out and were reportedly at a bar called Reservations before the shooting. It appears that their location was inadvertently revealed through social media posts, prompting concerns about the safety of high-profile individuals in Memphis. The rapper’s entourage had hired private security, but it has been criticized for failing to adequately protect them during the incident.
This shooting is a stark reminder of the ongoing violence that can permeate communities, regardless of their perceived safety. Memphis has been no stranger to such tragedies, with a history of violence affecting individuals from all walks of life, including community leaders and artists alike. The deaths of Sayso P and the injury of Sauce Walka add to the growing list of casualties within the hip-hop community, underscoring the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
As the investigation continues, the music industry and fans alike are left to mourn the loss of Sayso P and hope for a swift recovery for Sauce Walka. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fame and the often-unforgiving nature of one’s hometown. In a world where success can sometimes draw unwanted attention, it remains imperative for artists to navigate their careers with caution and foresight.