
Tione “Lil’ Tjay” Merritt was reportedly shot at a Chipotle in Edgewater, New Jersey shortly after midnight. TMZ indicates that Merritt was taken to a nearby hospital after the shooting and is currently in “emergency” surgery. At this time, it is unclear what led to the shooting or who the alleged shooter is.
In addition, TMZ reports that a second shooting took place at an Exxon gas station. One person reportedly suffered a gunshot wound, but it is unclear who the victim is or what the extent of their injuries is.
Merritt’s family nor media representative has issued a statement regarding the matter.
Merritt is best known to the world as Lil’ Tjay. At 16 years old, the emerging artist began releasing music through Soundcloud. After earning top honors at a local showcase and releasing his hit single, “Brothers,” he was signed to Columbia Records. Since then, he’s risen to national prominence due to his collaborations with 6LACK, Polo G, Pop Smoke and others. His most recent album, Destined 2 Win, rose into the top five of the Billboard 200 Chart and set him up for what could be a great second half of 2022.
More details will be shared regarding Lil’ Tjay’s condition as they become available.