YOUNG DOLPH AFFILIATE GROVE HERO SHOT

Memphis comedian and rapper Grove Hero, a known affiliate of the late Young Dolph, was reportedly shot in the spine while on tour in North Carolina, leaving fans and the hip-hop community reeling. The incident, which occurred recently, has sparked an outpouring of support and prayers on social media, with many expressing hope for his recovery while grappling with the ongoing violence that continues to impact the Memphis rap scene.

Grove Hero, born David Moore, has been a prominent figure in Memphis, not only for his comedic skits and music but also for his close ties to Young Dolph and the Paper Route Empire (PRE) label. Known for his vibrant personality and dedication to carrying on Dolph’s legacy, Hero’s shooting has reignited conversations about the dangers faced by artists and their associates in the industry. While details surrounding the shooting remain limited, the incident has drawn significant attention due to Hero’s connection to Dolph, who was tragically gunned down in November 2021 at Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies in Memphis.

According to posts on X, Grove Hero was hospitalized following the shooting, with the bullet reportedly striking his spine. The severity of his condition remains unclear, but fans have taken to social media to share messages of support, with comments like “Praying for Grove 🙏🏾” and “Stay Strong, Grove Hero 🏽” flooding platforms. These sentiments reflect the deep connection Hero has built with his audience through his music, comedy, and community involvement, often inspired by Dolph’s commitment to giving back to Memphis.

Grove Hero’s affiliation with Young Dolph has long placed him in the spotlight. In a 2022 interview with Dirty Glove Bastard, Hero spoke about how Dolph changed his life, emphasizing the rapper’s mentorship and the opportunities provided through PRE. He also discussed his determination to keep Dolph’s legacy alive, both through his own music and by participating in community initiatives like the IdaMae Family Foundation’s Thanksgiving turkey drives. This shooting, however, underscores the persistent risks faced by those connected to Dolph, whose 2021 murder remains a wound in the Memphis community.

The circumstances of Hero’s shooting are still emerging, and no official police reports or statements from his team have been widely circulated as of August 10, 2025. However, the incident follows a pattern of violence that has haunted the Memphis rap scene. Dolph’s murder trial, involving suspects Hernandez Govan, Justin Johnson, and Cornelius Smith, has revealed chilling details about a $100,000 hit allegedly orchestrated by Yo Gotti’s late brother, Big Jook, who was himself killed in January 2024. Additionally, Grove Hero’s past altercation with CMG artist Lil Migo at an airport in 2022 highlighted tensions between Dolph’s and Yo Gotti’s camps, though no direct link to the shooting has been confirmed.

The Memphis rap community has faced relentless tragedy, from Dolph’s death to Big Jook’s unsolved murder and now Grove Hero’s shooting. These events have fueled speculation about ongoing rivalries, with some fans on X pointing to the competitive dynamics of the Memphis rap scene as a potential factor. However, without concrete evidence, such claims remain speculative, and authorities have not disclosed a motive or suspects in Hero’s shooting.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on Grove Hero’s recovery. His contributions to Memphis culture—through comedy, music, and community service—have made him a beloved figure, and his resilience in the face of adversity has been a hallmark of his career. The hip-hop community continues to rally around him, with many hoping for updates on his condition and justice for those responsible.

This shooting serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing artists and their associates in the music industry, particularly in a city like Memphis, where talent and tragedy often intersect. As fans await further news, the call for an end to senseless violence grows louder, echoing the sentiments of Young Dolph’s fiancée, Mia Jaye, who has advocated for justice and accountability since Dolph’s passing.

For now, the Memphis community and fans worldwide hold their breath, praying for Grove Hero’s recovery and hoping for a future where artists can create without fear. Updates on his condition and the investigation are eagerly awaited, as the legacy of Young Dolph and his affiliates continues to shape the narrative of Memphis hip-hop.