Rapper Jabari Henley, better known as Baby Uiie, was gunned down on Halloween night in what authorities describe as a developing and deeply tragic murder case.

Henley, the 34-year-old son of a reputed Los Angeles gang figure, was shot multiple times near a South LA smoke shop late Friday night, prompting an ongoing investigation by law enforcement, as the Daily Mail reports.

The fatal shooting took place around 11 p.m. at the intersection of 69th Street and Figueroa Street in South Los Angeles. According to police sources, Henley approached a vehicle in the area moments before he was shot. Paramedics arriving on the scene pronounced him dead from multiple gunshot wounds.

Henley was the son of Eugene “Big U” Henley, a prominent figure in Los Angeles who has long been associated with the Rollin’ 60s street gang. Eugene Henley is currently facing a federal indictment on serious charges, including racketeering, fraud, and theft of charitable funds. Jabari’s mother, Stacey Henley, and siblings Michael, Cherysh, and Daiyan -- all survive him, with Daiyan Henley currently playing linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Upon arriving at the scene, LAPD officers secured the area and questioned witnesses. Several men seen wearing Texas Ranger–style hats were briefly detained for questioning but were later released without charges. No suspects have been arrested as of Sunday night, and police have yet to publicly confirm whether the killing is believed to be gang-related.

Unclear Motive Behind Sudden Attack

Witness accounts reported that Henley approached a parked vehicle just moments before shots rang out in the quiet residential neighborhood. It remains unclear whether he knew the occupants of the vehicle or why the altercation turned violent. The driver of the vehicle and any potential passengers reportedly fled the scene and remain unidentified.

The area where the shooting occurred is known for occasional gang-related violence, but investigators have not linked this particular crime to gang activity. LAPD detectives are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and have asked the public to come forward with any information that can assist their investigation.

As the case gains media attention, tributes have flooded social media, with fans and fellow artists mourning the rapper’s untimely death. "Rollin 60s leader Big U’s son Baby Uiie has reportedly been shot and killed outside a smoke shop in Los Angeles. RIP," one fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Influence of a Notorious Family Legacy

Henley, best known for his collaboration on the track “Hood” with HoodRich Pablo Juan and producer Kenny Beats, was working to solidify his place in the hip-hop world. His career, while still emerging, showed promise and earned him a modest but dedicated following both locally and online.

The tragedy comes just months after his father, Eugene “Big U” Henley, was indicted on federal charges. The U.S. Department of Justice has accused Big U of running a criminal enterprise under the guise of charitable work, using intimidation tactics to grow his influence since the 1980s. These allegations, serious in nature, cast a long shadow over Jabari Henley’s upbringing and public identity.

Inside the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, fellow inmate and rapper Luce Cannon commented on the emotional fallout. “It’s heartbreaking,” Cannon said, speaking on behalf of himself and Big U, both of whom were reportedly devastated by the young rapper’s death. “God makes no mistakes,” he added in reflection.

Tributes From Family, Music Community

Though Jabari Henley grew up with connections to one of LA’s most recognized street organizations, those who knew him best say he was working to create a new path for himself. His music often reflected a desire to escape the cycle of violence and poverty that defines many urban communities across the country.

Family members have yet to release an official statement, but sources close to them describe the household as filled with grief and unanswered questions. Henley’s siblings were particularly close to him, with Daiyan Henley, his NFL-playing brother, sharing recent posts in honor of his life and legacy.

Local radio stations and hip-hop blogs have highlighted Baby Uiie’s contributions to music, revisiting his collaborations and past performances. While he never achieved mainstream stardom, many in the Southern California hip-hop scene regarded him as a rising talent with compelling storytelling ability.

Lessons to Learn

Though this case remains under investigation, several key lessons can be drawn from the circumstances surrounding Jabari Henley's slaying:

1. Always be aware of your surroundings at night. Many violent crimes occur under the cover of darkness. Approaching unknown vehicles or individuals in low-lit or isolated areas significantly increases risk, even in familiar neighborhoods.
2. Know the power of your associations. While we cannot choose our families or their histories, it is important to understand how public connections to known figures -- especially those facing criminal charges -- can attract unwanted attention and danger.
3. Crime can happen to anyone. No matter how careful or well-intentioned a person may be, violence is sometimes a reality we cannot predict or prevent. Victims are never to be blamed, and as a community, we should offer support instead of judgment.

Why This Story Matters

This story exposes the harsh realities of life in parts of South Los Angeles, where even public figures and those with fame or talent can fall victim to violence.

It also highlights the ripple effects that alleged criminal enterprises have not only on communities but on families.

Finally, this case raises critical questions about public safety and systemic issues that often go ignored when tragedy strikes.