Memphis Rap Scene Reels After PaperRoute Empire Affiliate Mario Bradley Shot
In a deeply troubling incident, Mario Bradley, a well-known affiliate of the Memphis-based rap label PaperRoute Empire (PRE), has been left critically injured after being shot in the spine. The news has sent shockwaves through the Memphis community and the wider hip-hop world, especially amid claims that the suspected attackers may have been people he considered close friends.
What Happened
The shooting took place in Memphis, leaving Bradley with life-altering injuries. While full details remain scarce, Bradley’s family has confirmed the incident, and an investigation is underway. The possibility that those responsible were trusted associates has added an especially painful layer of betrayal to the tragedy.
Who Is Mario Bradley?
At 29, Mario Bradley had been making a name for himself in the Memphis rap scene, closely tied to PaperRoute Empire—the label founded by the late Young Dolph. Known for his connections within the industry and his growing influence, Bradley’s career was gaining momentum before this devastating setback. The shooting has not only placed his health in jeopardy but also cast a shadow over the label still grieving Dolph’s murder in 2021.
Timeline & Background
The Attack: Bradley was shot in the spine, reportedly while in the company of individuals he knew. A harrowing video from the hospital shows him in severe pain, crying out—a clip that has since gone viral and stirred public outrage.
PRE’s Past Losses: The incident comes less than four years after the fatal shooting of Young Dolph, dealing another painful blow to the PaperRoute Empire family.
Betrayal Allegations: Online discussions have intensified over claims that Bradley’s attackers may have been people from his inner circle, sparking conversations about loyalty, trust, and the dangers surrounding artists in the street-oriented rap scene.
Community & Social Media Response
The shooting has prompted an outpouring of prayers, tributes, and calls for justice across social media. Many fans and local residents have expressed both anger and heartbreak over the alleged betrayal, while others are calling for an end to the cycle of violence that continues to plague Memphis’s rap community.
What’s Next
Law enforcement has yet to confirm any arrests or name suspects, but the investigation remains active. Supporters are rallying for Bradley’s recovery and demanding accountability for those involved. The incident has reignited broader conversations about safety, trust, and the urgent need for change within the city’s hip-hop culture.