The FBI is asking the public for help to identify the suspects of the April 6 shooting of rapper Offset at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The agency has released photos of individuals who are suspected of the crime.
Federal investigators have released new surveillance images of several individuals and vehicles linked to the April 6, 2026, shooting of Atlanta rapper Offset (real name Kiari Kendrell Cephus) outside the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
The incident occurred around 7:24 p.m. in the valet area of the casino. According to the FBI and Seminole Police Department, a large group of people assaulted Offset. During the altercation, one suspect drew a handgun and fired a single shot, striking the rapper in the leg. The group then attempted to rob him of his watch, but the robbery failed. Offset sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood. He was hospitalized for several days and discharged on or around April 10, 2026.
The suspects fled the scene in two Chevrolet SUVs: a matte gray Tahoe and a black Suburban. Surveillance footage and witness accounts indicate the black Suburban headed north toward Hollywood, while the matte gray Tahoe traveled southbound in the direction of Miami.
The FBI’s Miami field office, in coordination with the Seminole Police Department and the South Florida Violent Crime and Fugitive Task Force, released multiple photos on April 14–15, 2026. These images show groups of men gathered near the vehicles in the valet area, as well as clearer views of the SUVs. Authorities are asking the public to help identify the individuals depicted.
Lil Tjay’s Arrest and Clarification
Just hours after the shooting, Seminole Police arrested rapper Lil Tjay (real name Tione Jayden Merritt) near the casino. He was initially detained in connection with the broader disturbance and booked into Broward County Jail on misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct (affray) and a traffic violation (driving without a valid license). Authorities have since clarified that Lil Tjay was not charged in connection with the shooting or robbery attempt itself. He was released shortly afterward. Some reports noted a pre-existing rap-related tension between the artists’ circles, though details remain unconfirmed by law enforcement.
Offset’s Recovery and Statement
Offset was released from the hospital and confirmed his recovery via Instagram around April 10–11, 2026. In his statement, he wrote:
“Thank you to everyone who’s checked in on me and showed me love! I’m good….but I’m planning to be better! I’m focused on my family, my recovery, and getting back to the music…realizing that life is made up of quiet wins and loud losses…. Life’s a gamble and I’m still playing to win.”
A spokesperson added that Offset was “up and walking” and expressed gratitude to the medical staff. He has since been seen performing, including appearances while using a wheelchair or scooter in the immediate aftermath.
Background on Offset
Offset rose to fame as a member of the hip-hop group Migos alongside Quavo and the late Takeoff. Born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, he has six children, including three with ex-wife Cardi B (who filed for divorce in 2024). The couple’s high-profile relationship has frequently made headlines.
Ongoing Investigation and Speculation
The case falls under federal jurisdiction because the Hard Rock is located on sovereign land of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, a federally recognized tribe. The investigation remains active and joint between local and federal agencies.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit tips anonymously at tips.fbi.gov.
The incident has sparked widespread online speculation, including unconfirmed rumors of a gambling-related dispute. Offset has faced past public discussion about possible gambling issues (including older reports of casino debts), and his use of the phrase “Life’s a gamble” in his recovery statement drew some criticism and memes on social media. However, neither Offset nor law enforcement has officially linked the shooting to gambling. The motive remains under investigation, with many questions still unanswered.
The FBI continues to seek the public’s assistance in identifying the individuals shown in the newly released surveillance photos. No arrests have been announced in connection with the actual shooting as of April 17, 2026.
This case highlights the challenges of investigating high-profile incidents on tribal land and the role of surveillance footage in fugitive task force efforts.