RELATED: NBA YoungBoy’s Friend 187 Derrick Shot and Killed in Lake Charles
In early October 2025, tragedy struck in Lake Charles, Louisiana, when 187 Derrick, a known associate of rapper NBA YoungBoy, was fatally shot outside Juicy’s Lounge. According to authorities, police responded just before 11 p.m. to reports of gunfire in the area. Derrick, whose real name has not been publicly confirmed, was discovered critically injured and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
The 27-year-old had gained recognition for his connections to NBA YoungBoy’s 4KT collective and for his presence in local Louisiana rap circles. However, his life was also surrounded by violence, reflecting a pattern that has claimed far too many young lives in communities across the South.
Police have yet to confirm any arrests or suspects in the case, but the investigation remains ongoing. The shooting sent shockwaves through both Lake Charles and the hip-hop community, reigniting discussions about gun violence, limited opportunities, and systemic struggles faced by young Black men.
💬 A Cousin Speaks Up
After The Talk Lounge covered Derrick’s story, one of his cousins that goes by ‘Sha’ reached out to thank us for telling it with compassion.
“187 Derrick was my cousin,” they said. “Thank you for covering this horrific tragedy with understanding. He was part of a large, close-knit family that loved him deeply. We’re heartbroken.”
The cousin described Derrick as a ‘father, partner, and protector’ someone who laughed loud, cared hard, and made his family feel seen.
“We’re not making excuses for his choices,” they continued. “But where we come from, opportunities are slim. A lot of young people in Lake Charles think rap or the streets are the only way out.”
Last words from Sha
✊🏽 A Message to the Youth
“Dear young Black people, think about this, y’all are playing right into the wishes of others by killing each other off,” the cousin said. “Instead of glorifying violence, start glorifying unity. We need to protect each other, not bury each other.”
Their words hit home. The loss of 187 Derrick isn’t just another headline, it’s another wake-up call. Another family broken, another name added to the list.
And like his cousin Sha said, maybe it’s time we start glorifying something different.
I’m sending this to save it. Do not make any changes.
