Sayso P Dead, Sauce Walka Shot—Suspect Found Dead in Houston

Memphis Police announced Monday that the suspect in the “targeted shooting” that killed Memphis rapper Sayso P and injured Houston rapper Sauce Walka has been found dead in Houston. This development marks a major turn in the investigation into the violent attack that shocked the hip-hop community just over a week ago.

The shooting took place on March 22, 2025, outside the Westin Hotel near the FedExForum in downtown Memphis. Authorities confirmed that the attack was premeditated, targeting 27-year-old Latorian Hunt, known as Sayso P, and 34-year-old Albert Walker Mondane, better known as Sauce Walka. Sayso P was fatally shot and pronounced dead at the scene, while Sauce Walka sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the thigh and was transported to Regional One Health for treatment.

Memphis Police identified 21-year-old Jayden Dandridge as the primary suspect. On March 26, authorities issued an arrest warrant, charging him with first-degree murder, two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of using a firearm in a felony, and auto theft.

The charges stemmed from the shooting and the recovery of a stolen 2021 Dodge Charger 392 Scat Pack, believed to be the suspect vehicle. Surveillance footage showed Dandridge exiting a white sedan, carrying an object in one hand and a backpack in the other, accompanied by at least one unidentified individual.

The Memphis Police Department’s homicide unit worked swiftly, using downtown camera footage and real-time data to identify Dandridge within 12 hours of the shooting. “Our homicide unit has worked tirelessly to bring justice to the victims and their families,” MPD Chief Cerelyn “C.J.” Davis said last week. A $6,000 reward was offered through CrimeStoppers for information leading to Dandridge’s arrest or the identification of additional suspects.

On March 31, Memphis Police confirmed Dandridge’s death in Houston. However, details about the cause, location, or circumstances of his death were not immediately disclosed. Authorities have not yet determined whether his death was a homicide, suicide, or an unrelated incident. “We are coordinating with Houston authorities to gather more information,” an MPD spokesperson stated, declining to provide further details.

The shooting sent shockwaves through the music industry, especially among fans of Sayso P and Sauce Walka, who shared a close professional and personal bond.

Sayso P, a rising star from Memphis’ Raleigh neighborhood, had recently signed to Sauce Walka’s label, The Sauce Factory (TSF). He was gaining recognition for his gritty lyrics and Southern rap style, with tracks like “Hefner” (2024) and “Backdoor” (2023). His final single, “Free One Punch,” was released on January 20, 2025, just two months before his tragic death. Friends and collaborators described him as a determined artist with a promising future, cut short at the age of 27.

Sauce Walka, known for his flamboyant persona and hits like “Texas Cyclone” and “Where Was You At,” is a prominent figure in the Houston rap scene. With over 2 million Instagram followers and collaborations with major artists like Travis Scott, Megan Thee Stallion, and Migos, he has established himself as a rapper and entrepreneur. As TSF’s founder, he mentored Sayso P, helping him transition from street life to a music career. The two were in Memphis for a visit when the attack occurred.

Following the tragedy, Sauce Walka took to Instagram to mourn his fallen protégé. “Words or tears can’t explain the loss I feel!” he wrote, sharing a video of them together. “Splatt, I wish your fat ahh listened to me and stayed in the room… we come together, we leave together. Wish you just went DR with Shimmy and shot off and skipped this trip to Memphis, but you were too excited I finally agreed to come to da M.” He vowed to honor Sayso P’s legacy, adding, “You left earth as a RICH YOUNG BOSS. You left this earth happy and successful. I’ma make sure the world knows who you really are.”

Albert Walker, Sauce Walka’s father, spoke to media outlets, expressing relief that his son survived. “Had it not been for God, my son would’ve been dead,” he told KHOU 11 News. He also praised Sayso P’s progress, noting his move to open a studio in Miami and his growing name in the industry.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though police have ruled out a random act of violence. “Early indications are that the victims and suspects knew each other,” MPD stated, suggesting a possible personal or professional conflict. Video footage obtained by TMZ captured three men exiting a white car and opening fire on Sayso P and Sauce Walka near a black Escalade, with Sayso P collapsing as Walka fled the scene.

Memphis Police reaffirmed their commitment to fully resolving the case. “We understand the public’s concern and remain dedicated to bringing all those responsible to justice,” the department said in a statement. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers at (901) 528-2274 or submit tips anonymously online at www.crimestopmem.org.