Eugene “Big U” Henley, a former rapper and son of a high-ranking gang leader and music executive, was reportedly shot and killed on Halloween night in Los Angeles.
Henley was shot down outside his smoke shop on the corner of 69th and Figueroa Streets in South Los Angeles around 11 p.m., according to the report. New York Post.
“The victim, described as a 34-year-old black male, approached a suspicious vehicle when an unknown suspect or suspects shot at him,” the LAPD said in a statement Friday.
The LAPD said Henley approached the car when someone opened fire. The suspects then fled the scene. LAPD did not identify Henley by name in their statement, but several subsequent reports identified the music producer's son as the victim. Police also declined to speculate whether the shooting was gang-related.
Henley is the son of Eugene “Big U” Henley, the notorious leader of the Rolling 60's Neighborhood Crips gang. Also known as the “Godfather of Rap,” Big U Henley is known for managing rapper Nipsey Hussle, who was also a member of the Crips.
“Big U” was alleged to have extorted money from celebrities and musicians who came into Crips territory in the form of so-called “registration” fees. When such people visited the area or “registered”, they had to pay a protection fee to ensure they would not be harmed during the visit.
He was also charged with kidnapping and robbery, as well as the 2021 murder of rapper Rayshawn Williams, although he remained innocent in the latter case.
“While Henley and other proponents attempt to convince the public that 'registration' provides safety and security for those who do so, as set forth herein, he and Big U Enterprise are also creating the very danger they are intended to protect against,” according to recent federal testimony.
“Big U's” other son, Diane Henley, plays for the Los Angeles Chargers.
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