Philadelphians mourn loss of rap artist YNG Cheese killed in triple shooting

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The son of a prominent rapper, Gillie Da King (formerly known as Gillie Da Kid), was killed in a triple shooting Thursday night in the Olney section of Philadelphia.

The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Devin Spady of Wyncote, Pa.

Spady was a rap artist known as YNG Cheese.

The shooting happened just before 8:30 p.m. in the 5800 block of Mascher Street.

Police say Spady was shot in the back and ran from the scene but collapsed a block away. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

A 28-year-old man was shot twice in the leg and a 31-year-old man was shot once in the hip.

Both were placed in stable condition.

Officers found a Mercedes with its engine running about a block away, and are holding it as evidence.

No arrests were made and no weapons were recovered at the scene.

There is also no word yet on the motive behind the shooting.

The victim's father has amassed millions of followers on social media, many of whom are planning to come to Philadelphia for "Gilliefest" next week.

Gillie Da King uses his platform to speak out against violence, the same kind that took his son's life.

The news of Spady's death is something radio personality Mina "Say What" Llona never thought she'd have to broadcast.

"It's a sad day in Philadelphia," she said. "It was just devastating."

Llona is a close friend of Gillie Da Kid.

"I think the sentiment on the street is when you're in Philadelphia and you become successful, you become a target, unfortunately," she noted.

Spady was a rising star in the music world before he died.

His father is a rapper turned podcaster and philanthropist, and he and his "Million Dollars Worth of Game" podcast partner Wallo helped give away millions of dollars to support local businesses.

Gillie Da King and Wallo were both awarded keys to the city for their efforts in the community.

Wallo also posted a heartfelt tribute to social media, saying he loved Spady "beyond life."

"Gillie and Wallo have become the unofficial mayors of the city of Philadelphia. How about that? They are the voice of the youth," said Walter Reed Jr., a talent agent at Big Bloc Entertainment Inc.

Reed has known Gillie Da King for years and knows he wanted more for his son.

"We as a community have to rise up and do better," he said.

"Radio One" producer Tafari Hayes says Gillie Da King's influence reaches across the country.

"They're able to speak to the young and steer them away from gun violence, gangs, and street life," said Hayes.

There is no word yet on how Spady's death will impact Gilliefest, which is scheduled next Saturday at the Franklin Music Hall.