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Rapper Lil Tjay has been arrested in Florida following an incident that led to the shooting of fellow artist Offset outside a casino.
The 24-year-old, whose real name is Tione Jayden Merritt, was taken into custody on Monday, April 6, and booked into Broward County Jail. According to police records obtained by PEOPLE, he was charged with disorderly conduct, affray, a first-degree misdemeanor, and held on a $500 bond.
Authorities say the incident occurred at a valet area outside the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, and began as a physical altercation. In a statement, the Seminole Police Department confirmed: "One person has been charged in connection with the incident that took place Monday night... The incident began with an affray, or fight. Merritt was booked into the Broward County Jail late last night."
During the altercation, Offset was shot. Police said the shooting happened at around 7 p.m., with officers responding quickly to the scene. He was transported to Memorial Regional Hospital, where he is being treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening.
A spokesperson for Offset confirmed his condition, saying, "We can confirm Offset was shot and is currently at the hospital receiving medical care. He is stable and being closely monitored." Sources also indicated that the rapper is not in intensive care and is expected to recover.
Police detained a second individual at the scene, but no charges have been filed against that person. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify others who may have been involved. "The investigation to identify one or more additional persons involved in the incident is ongoing," authorities said.
Lil Tjay's legal team has pushed back against claims linking him directly to the shooting. His lawyer, Dawn Florio, addressed speculation in a statement, saying: "Lil Tjay has not been shot, nor has Lil Tjay been charged with any shooting. Any reporting to the contrary is false." She also urged the public to verify information before spreading "baseless rumors."
Police emphasized that the situation was quickly contained and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Operations at the casino resumed as normal following the incident.
