Federal agents and local authorities have made a major breakthrough in the drive-by shooting case involving rising Detroit rap star Skilla Baby, arresting a person of interest following a coordinated raid in Detroit. The arrest, which took place on June 5, 2025, comes just over two weeks after the May 22 shooting that left the 26-year-old rapper—real name Trevon Gardner—hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds.
Drive-By Ambush Near Eight Mile Road
The violent attack occurred around 7 p.m. on May 22 in Redford Township, near Eight Mile Road and Beech Daly. Gardner was driving alone when an unidentified assailant in a dark SUV opened fire, unleashing over 20 bullets into his vehicle. Skilla Baby’s car was left riddled with holes before he crashed into a nearby building. He sustained three non-fatal injuries, including a graze to the head, a gunshot wound to the leg, and another to his hand.
A witness at the scene rushed the rapper to a local hospital, where he was stabilized. Thanks to the bystander’s quick thinking and the emergency team’s work, Gardner is expected to make a full recovery.
First Arrest Made in High-Profile Case
The June 5 arrest took place during a joint operation involving federal agents and Detroit police at a residence in the Linwood and Davison area. This marks the first arrest in the case, which investigators believe was a targeted attack. The presence of federal agents suggests the shooting may involve interstate connections or organized elements beyond local jurisdiction.
Authorities emphasized the investigation is far from over, urging the public to come forward with any information. Detective Ed French is leading the case and can be reached at 313-387-2579 or via email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips are also welcomed via Michigan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAKUP.
Skilla Baby: From Grief to Greatness
Skilla Baby has become one of the most promising voices in Detroit hip-hop. A gifted writer from a young age, his journey began after memorizing Langston Hughes’ Mother to Son in the fifth grade. Following the death of his father at age 15, Gardner pivoted from basketball—where he was known as “Skillz”—to music, working at McDonald’s and Walmart to fund his recording sessions.
He broke into the scene with his 2019 mixtape Push That Shit Out Skilla and gained major traction with “Womack” in 2020. His collaboration with Sada Baby on Carmelo Bryant helped solidify his status in the local rap scene, eventually leading to a deal with Geffen Records in 2022. His debut album, We Eat The Most, included hits like “Icky Vicky Vibes” and “Tay B Style”, peaking at No. 16 on the Heatseekers chart. Skilla Baby most recently joined Travis Scott on the Circus Maximus Tour, marking a new height in his career.
A Turning Point in the Case
The arrest brings cautious optimism to fans and the hip-hop community as law enforcement continues to unravel the details of what appears to be a premeditated attack on a local star. While more suspects may be involved, this development sends a clear message: justice is in motion.
