Community Mourns LGP QUA as Police Search for 3 Suspects in Killing of Philadelphia Rapper

By James, SEO Article Writer
May 13, 2025

Philadelphia is grappling with the loss of Qidere Johnson, a 30-year-old rapper and anti-violence activist known as LGP QUA, who was fatally shot on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, in the city’s Juniata Park neighborhood. The incident, described by police as a robbery gone wrong, has left the community mourning a beloved figure whose music and activism inspired many. As the Philadelphia Police Department searches for three suspects, the tragedy has reignited discussions about gun violence and the role of artists in advocating for change.

May 11, 2025, 4:40 p.m. Meek Mill Leads Tributes

4:40 p.m. - Fatal Shooting in Juniata Park

On Sunday, May 11, 2025, at approximately 4:40 p.m., Qidere Johnson, known professionally as LGP QUA, was shot near the intersection of M and East Luzerne Streets in Philadelphia’s Juniata Park neighborhood. According to the Philadelphia Police Department, Johnson and a friend were approached by three men who attempted to rob them, targeting Johnson’s gold chains. During the confrontation, one suspect shot Johnson in the chest. He was rushed to Temple University Hospital in a private vehicle but was pronounced dead shortly before 5 p.m. The suspects fled the scene, and no arrests have been made as of May 13, 2025.

5:00 p.m. - LGP QUA Pronounced Dead

At 4:56 p.m., Johnson was pronounced dead at Temple University Hospital. The Philadelphia Police Department classified the incident as a homicide, marking it as one of 74 homicides in the city in 2025, a 21.28% decrease from the previous year. The loss of Johnson, a prominent figure in the community, has deeply affected residents and the music scene.

May 12, 2025 - Community and Artists Respond

News of LGP QUA’s death spread quickly, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow artists, and community members. Meek Mill, a prominent Philadelphia rapper, shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, “Killing ambitious young bulls like this on Mother’s Day is a Philly type of thing” (Meek Mill Instagram). He highlighted Johnson’s efforts to collect guns, underscoring the tragic irony of his death. Other artists, including Swizz Beatz, DJ Kid Capri, and Dee-1, also expressed condolences, emphasizing Johnson’s role as a positive influence.

Johnson’s family confirmed his identity via social media, sharing a heartfelt statement: “Qua deserved to grow old. In neighborhoods and systems that deemed us less, Qidere wanted the youth in Philadelphia to know it was more for them to achieve” (LGP QUA Facebook). The statement reflected Johnson’s determination to uplift others after turning his life around following an 18-month prison stint on a weapons charge.

May 13, 2025 - Police Continue Search for Suspects

As of May 13, 2025, the Philadelphia Police Department is actively searching for the three suspects involved in Johnson’s killing. No descriptions of the suspects have been released, but police are gathering evidence to provide further details. A $20,000 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the police at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

Who Was LGP QUA?

Qidere Johnson, born in North Philadelphia, rose to prominence as LGP QUA, a rapper known for his socially conscious lyrics and community activism. Nicknamed the “Voice of the Youth,” he gained national attention in 2017 with a viral freestyle supporting Meek Mill during Mill’s imprisonment, amassing over 1 million views on Instagram. Another freestyle in 2022 garnered 1.6 million views, solidifying his influence.

Johnson’s early life was marked by challenges, including an 18-month prison sentence at age 22 for a weapons charge. During this time, he met his father for the first time and began writing rap lyrics, which became the foundation of his career. After his release, he collaborated with artists like Will.i.am and received citations from Philadelphia councilwoman Cindy Bass and Senator Shariff Street for his community contributions.

His music, including the single “Dear Qua,” featured letters from teenagers about their struggles, resonating with audiences for its raw depiction of life in Philadelphia’s underserved neighborhoods. Johnson was also a dedicated philanthropist, donating $10,000 to a Nicetown elementary school and partnering with Puma and Foot Locker in 2019 to give away nearly 1,000 pairs of sneakers to students at Alice West Fleet Elementary School and Simon Gratz Mastery Charter School.

LGP QUA’s Impact

Aspect	Details
Stage Name	LGP QUA (Qidere Johnson)
Nickname	Voice of the Youth
Hometown	North Philadelphia
Notable Works	Viral freestyles (2017, 2022), “Dear Qua” single
Collaborations	Will.i.am
Community Service	Donated $10,000 to Nicetown school, gave away 1,000 sneakers
Recognition	Citations from Cindy Bass, Shariff Street
Social Media	Over 300,000 Instagram followers

Community Mourning and Calls for Change

The Philadelphia music community and residents are devastated by Johnson’s death. A vigil is planned for later this week to honor his legacy, with community members expected to gather and call for an end to gun violence. Fans on X expressed their sorrow, with one writing, “How Philly kill someone who raps about positivity?… he was putting on for y’all in a positive way” (SAY CHEESE! X Post).

Johnson’s family and friends emphasized his commitment to empowering youth. His death has sparked renewed conversations about gun violence, particularly in light of other recent losses in the Philadelphia rap scene, including PNB Rock in 2022, and Phat Geez and YNG Cheese in 2024. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by artists who use their platforms to address social issues.

Gun Violence in Philadelphia: A Broader Context

Johnson’s killing is one of three homicides reported in Philadelphia over the Mother’s Day weekend, including a 12-year-old boy shot while filming a music video and a man killed on North Chadwick Street. Despite a 21.28% decrease in homicides in 2025 compared to 2024, gun violence remains a pressing issue. Johnson’s activism, including his efforts to collect guns, made his death particularly poignant, as he was a vocal advocate for ending the cycle of violence he ultimately fell victim to.

The tragedy underscores the risks faced by artists who speak out against systemic issues. LGP QUA’s music educated and inspired, offering hope to a community often plagued by violence and inequality. His loss has prompted calls for stronger community protections and policies to address gun violence, with advocates hoping his death will galvanize action.

How to Help the Investigation

The Philadelphia Police Department is seeking public assistance to identify and apprehend the suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police at 215-686-TIPS (8477). Tips can be provided anonymously, and the $20,000 reward serves as an incentive for information leading to arrests and convictions. Community members are also encouraged to share any relevant surveillance footage or witness accounts to aid the investigation.

Looking Forward: Honoring LGP QUA’s Legacy

LGP QUA’s legacy as a rapper, activist, and community leader will endure through his music and the lives he touched. His commitment to uplifting Philadelphia’s youth and addressing social injustices has left an indelible mark. As the community prepares to honor him at the upcoming vigil, there is a collective hope that his death will inspire meaningful change, reducing gun violence and amplifying the voices of those who, like Johnson, strive for a better future.

The investigation into his killing remains ongoing, with the Philadelphia Police Department committed to pursuing justice. For now, the city mourns a talent taken too soon, while holding onto the messages of hope and resilience that defined LGP QUA’s life and work.