Tragedy struck in Jamaica, Queens, when rising rapper YP DA YG, born Prince McFarlane, was fatally shot during a late-night family dispute that spiraled into an alleged murder-suicide.
The 37-year-old rapper was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head inside his home on 116th Road near 155th Street, just before midnight on Friday, October 3, per FOX News.
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), McFarlane’s 41-year-old nephew allegedly shot him during an argument over the sale of their family home, which had recently been listed for sale at $600,000.
After the fatal shooting, the nephew reportedly turned the gun on himself. He was rushed to Jamaica Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after. A firearm was recovered at the scene.
Dispute Over Family Home Turns Deadly
Relatives of YP DA YG, including his uncle who lives in the basement of the home, told the New York Daily News that the argument began over the sale of the property.
The dispute escalated quickly, and the nephew is believed to have stayed in the house with his cousin’s body for several hours before taking his own life in an upstairs hallway.
Around 11:45PM, YP DA YG’s uncle, who had been unaware of the tragic events, discovered the two bodies in the home. Police are not currently searching for any additional suspects, and investigators continue to review the case.
YP DA YG’s Legacy in the Queens Music Scene
YP DA YG had been steadily gaining traction in the local Queens trap scene.
Known for his work in the rap industry, he frequently shared photos with high-profile figures like 50 Cent and Nicki Minaj on his social media. His career, although tragically cut short, showed promise as he was making waves in the New York rap community.
Fans and friends have flooded social media with tributes following the rapper’s untimely death.
Previous Tragedy
The up-and-coming rapper had faced tragedy last year, as he paid tribute to his long-time friend Gregory Peterson, who died in a tragic moped accident.
In the heartfelt tribute, YP DA YG wrote: “@gregory9342 from Packing Bags, Sweepin the Barbershop, Wheeling Bikes, fighting n****s in School, bagging girls in liberty pool, working for Herb, selling weed, Nights in the Bando,” the post began.
“U name it We did it. I smoked my very first blunt with u in the KFC lot when it was on sutphin. U can't say 5Block without including you. You've been thru it ALL and still remained Humble. 36 years of friendship in the BLINK of an Eye gone.”
He continued: “I wanna say thank you for ALWAYS BEING THERE for me. Thank you for Always being my friend. Thank you for Always being loyal. From us being in Pampers to US having our own in Pampers. Nyelle love her Uncle Weezy Man. You just never know when it's time to go. I love you KING. My brother from another. SUTPHIN MADE ME... 5 BLOCK BABY #115AVE till we meet again. Love your soul.”
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