Grammy-nominated hip-hop star A$AP Rocky, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, was charged on August 15, 2022 with two counts of assault for allegedly firing a gun at his former friend, Terrell Ephron (A$AP Relli), during a confrontation in Hollywood in 2021.
Ephron took the witness stand on Tuesday in Mayers’ assault trial, testifying about the argument that led to the alleged shooting. He claimed that although their friendship had been deteriorating, he never expected Mayers to fire at him; Mayers and Ephron were childhood friends and both a part of Harlem-based rap collective A$AP Mob. Ephron stated that he saw Mayers with a gun and, despite this, followed him, believing he wouldn’t use it.
Ephron accused Mayers of grazing his hand with his bullet and that it felt “hot.” According to ABC News, Ephron testified that Mayers first pointed the gun downward before firing. Panicked, Ephron said he grabbed a mutual friend and used him as cover before Mayers allegedly fired a second shot and fled the scene. They concluded their questioning on Wednesday, though he is expected to return to the stand on Thursday for cross-examination.
Mayers’ lead attorney, Joe Tacopina, countered the claims, telling the jury that multiple witnesses would testify that the gun seen on surveillance footage was nothing more than a prop. Mayers pleaded not guilty. If Mayers is convicted, he could face up to 24 years in prison.
Rihanna, who shares two young sons with Mayers, attended the trial proceedings on Wednesday, showing her support for him despite not being legally married; also demonstrating her support, she missed the Grammys with Mayers this Sunday.
Prosecutors presented extensive evidence including a series of maps, identifying photos, a 911 call from the night of the incident, and several videos captured by surveillance cameras. The videos allegedly show Meyers firing a gun at Ephron. However, despite the evidence, Mayers and his legal team insist he is innocent, arguing that Ephron is only pursuing the case for financial gain.
Ephron initially came forward on August 10, 2022, accusing Mayers of assault, battery, emotional distress, and negligence. Mayers has denied all allegations. Now, the question remains: is this a case of a victim seeking justice, or a lawsuit driven by money?
