Skilla Baby wasn’t caught in the wrong place at the wrong time; he was the target.
The Detroit rapper, born Trevon Gardner, is recovering after a calculated shooting that police confirm was a direct attempt on his life. On Thursday, as Skilla drove east on Eight Mile near Beech Daly, a dark SUV pulled up alongside him.
“Back windows started rolling down, and then next thing you know, shots were being fired at him and his vehicle,” said Det. Edward French.
The attack was no accident. “It definitely appears that it was targeted,” French said. “I do not know any background or disputes…but it wasn’t random.”
More than 20 bullets flew. Gardner was struck three times before crashing into a nearby building. Miraculously, he survived. Just days before, the rapper shared a prayer on Instagram, asking for protection, even for his enemies.
“God certainly answered that prayer,” said Pastor Maurice Mo Hardwick.
Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield, who has partnered with Skilla on community initiatives, was shaken by the news.
“I think he’s upset. I think he’s disappointed,” she said. “He’s someone that gives back. He’s a role model.”
Police and city leaders are calling for peace, not revenge.
“We don’t want retaliation,” Sheffield said. “He has so many people in this city pulling for him.”
Skilla Baby remains hospitalized but stable. He has not yet spoken out about the shooting.
