Detroit Rapper Skilla Baby Survives Drive-By Shooting on 8 Mile Road, Returns to Stage Within Days

29 May 2025

Rapper Skilla Baby was reportedly shot in a drive-by shooting on Thursday (Getty Images for BET)

Detroit rapper Skilla Baby, whose real name is Trevon Gardner, is recovering after surviving a harrowing drive-by shooting that took place on May 22, 2025. The incident occurred near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and Beech Daly in Redford Township, a suburb just west of Detroit. Gardner, 25, was traveling in a black SUV when unknown assailants opened fire on his vehicle in a targeted ambush that involved more than 20 rounds of gunfire. The car veered off course and crashed into a nearby building, sustaining significant damage.

Authorities confirmed that Skilla Baby suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to his head, hand, back, and thigh. Despite the severity of the attack, he remained conscious and alert when first responders arrived. He was immediately taken to a local hospital, where doctors stabilized his condition. Medical personnel later reported that none of the injuries were life-threatening and that he is expected to make a full recovery.

The shooting sent shockwaves through the Detroit hip-hop community and among fans nationwide. Skilla Baby has been a rising star in the rap scene, especially in the Midwest, where his raw storytelling and authentic portrayal of Detroit life have earned him a loyal following. His breakout mixtape Push That S**t Out Skilla in 2019 gained traction, but it was the 2020 single Womack that cemented his position as one of Detroit’s most promising artists. In 2022, he signed with Geffen Records and released his debut studio album We Eat The Most, which performed well on streaming platforms and was praised for its gritty realism.

In April 2024, he was named a BET Amplified artist, an honor given to rising musicians with significant cultural impact. Skilla Baby has also taken a hands-on approach to community engagement, recently partnering with the Brady Center for a local gun buyback initiative aimed at reducing firearm-related violence in Detroit.

What shocked fans even more than the brazen attack was Gardner’s swift return to the stage. Just two days after the shooting, on May 24, he made an unexpected appearance at fellow rapper 42 Dugg’s concert at the Masonic Temple Theatre in Detroit. Still visibly injured and wearing a sling on one arm, Skilla Baby took the stage briefly to perform and thank fans for their support. The crowd erupted in applause, praising his resilience and unwavering dedication to his music and his city.

The Redford Township Police Department has launched a full investigation into the shooting, but as of now, no suspects have been identified. The motive behind the ambush remains unclear, and authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward. Detective Ed French is leading the investigation and can be reached at 313-387-2579. Anonymous tips are also being accepted at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.

This incident has once again highlighted the persistent threat of gun violence in urban communities, particularly among high-profile public figures. It also sheds light on the complex reality many artists face balancing fame, authenticity, and personal safety in environments that can quickly turn dangerous.

For now, Skilla Baby’s focus appears to be on healing and continuing his journey in music. His quick return to public life signals a deep resilience, one shaped by both his personal experiences and the unforgiving streets that raised him. As fans and fellow artists rally around him with support, many hope the attack won’t derail his career or his mission to uplift his community through music and activism.